Mohammed Sinwar, the younger brother of slain Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar, has emerged as a prominent figure in the group’s leadership, becoming a key strategist for Hamas during one of its most challenging periods, reports the New York Post.
Israel’s military campaign over the past 15 months has resulted in the deaths of over 17,000 Hamas members, while Mohammed Sinwar has played a key role in rebuilding the group and reinforcing its control over Gaza, particularly following the death of his brother Yahya last October.
‘The shadow’
Nicknamed “the shadow” by Israeli officials, Mohammed Sinwar was born in 1975 in a Khan Younis refugee camp and has risen to prominence within Hamas’ leadership. Following the death of his brother Yahya Sinwar in October last year, Hamas established a governing council to make it harder for Israel to target its leaders. Mohammed has become the council’s key leader, working to rebuild and strengthen the group after its losses.
Mohammed’s influence was witnessed during the recent hostage exchange in Gaza City. Hamas fighters in uniforms paraded four Israeli hostages through Palestine Square as supporters cheered and threw confetti. Critics argued that the exchange showed Israel’s inability to fully dismantle Hamas despite over a year of continuous conflict, with Sinwar credited for the group’s revival.
‘Sinwar rebuilding Hamas faster than IDF can eradicate it’
Amir Avivi, a retired Israeli brigadier general, told the Wall Street Journal: “We are in a situation where the pace at which Hamas is rebuilding itself is higher than the pace that the IDF is eradicating them. Mohammed Sinwar is managing everything.”
The US has raised similar concerns, claiming that Hamas has replaced fighters lost during Israel’s operations by taking advantage of Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. Reports say Mohammed had directed his men to promise food and medicine to recruit thousands, even attending funerals to win over grieving families.
From radicalized youth to Hamas leader
Mohammed’s radical views were shaped early on by his brother Yahya and Hamas founder Sheikh Ahmed Yassin. Growing up, he was surrounded by militants plotting attacks on Israel. At 13, he witnessed his brother’s arrest, an event that reportedly strengthened his loyalty to Hamas.
In 1991, Mohammed was imprisoned by the IDF for nine months on suspicion of terrorist activity, reports the Jerusalem Post. He spent a total of three years in custody throughout the 1990s, including some time in Palestinian security forces’ detention under pressure from Israel.
Mohammed Sinwar became well-known within Hamas after leading the 2006 raid that captured Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit. The operation eventually led to Yahya’s release in a 2011 prisoner swap.
Over the years, Mohammed had remained a trusted ally to his brother, playing a significant role in planning the deadly Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, which killed over 1,200 people and left 251 others taken hostage.
‘Brand name’
Mohammed Sinwar’s leadership remains largely secretive, but his rise within Hamas has made him a key figure.
Counter-terrorism expert Colin Clarke notes that Sinwar’s connection to his brother Yahya has boosted his reputation in Gaza. Clarke describes him as a “brand name,” with Hamas using his status to strengthen its influence.
“He’s definitely riding on his name,” Clarke told The Post. “He’s a brand name that carries a lot of clout in Gaza because of his brother, so Hamas will be sure to use that,” he added.
The conflict has heavily impacted Gaza, with the health ministry reporting over 47,000 Palestinian deaths since the October attacks. A recent ceasefire and prisoner-hostage exchange aims to pave the way for peace and possible negotiations.