Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his first press conference since December, has hinted that Israel probably had killed Hamas leader Muhammad Sinwar. Addressing a Jerusalem press conference, Netanyahu claimed that 20 hostages remain alive in Gaza, while “up to 38” have perished and assured the public, “We will bring everyone back.“Netanyahu stated that Israel maintains a well-structured plan for its military objectives in Gaza, emphasising that the conflict serves a distinct and warranted purpose, Times of Israel reported.“To defeat Hamas, which carried out the atrocities of October 7; to bring back all of our hostages; and to ensure that Gaza does not present a threat to Israel.”He maintained these objectives are interconnected and require complete fulfilment.“We eliminated tens of thousands of terrorists. We eliminated the leaders of the murderers Deif, Haniyeh, Yahya Sinwar and probably Mohammad Sinwar,” CNN quoted Netanyahu saying. Regarding potential negotiations, he indicates openness to a “temporary ceasefire” if it facilitates the return of additional hostages, whilst emphasising such an arrangement would be time-limited.

Who is Mohammad Sinwar?

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.’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.