Mohammed Sinwar, Hamas’s top military commander in Gaza and brother of slain leader Yahya Sinwar, was reportedly killed by an Israeli airstrike in May near Khan Younis, though Hamas has not confirmed the death.

The Israeli military announced Saturday that Mohammed Sinwar was killed in a targeted airstrike earlier in May near the European Hospital in Khan Younis. The attack, according to Israel, aimed at underground Hamas infrastructure and also killed Muhammad Shabana, commander of the group's Rafah brigade. Gaza’s civil defense reported at least 28 deaths in the strike.

Israel has intensified efforts to eliminate Hamas's leadership following the October 7, 2023, operation. “Israel’s long arm will reach everyone responsible,” said Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, reiterating Israel's policy of leadership decapitation.

Sinwar: From Khan Younis to Hamas Command

Born in 1975 in the Khan Younis refugee camp, Sinwar was the younger brother of Yahya Sinwar and followed his path into Hamas’s ranks. The family had fled Majdal—now Ashkelon—during the Nakba in 1948. Known as “The Shadow Man,” Sinwar was highly secretive, surviving at least six assassination attempts. He served as commander in Khan Younis and was involved in key operations, including the 2006 abduction of Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit.

He rose rapidly after the deaths of key figures like Mohammed Deif and Yahya Sinwar. Israeli sources believe he played a key role in planning the October 7 attacks and led ongoing negotiations over ceasefires and hostage releases.

A Leadership Void — or Strategic Continuity?

Hamas has not officially commented on Sinwar’s death, reflecting a broader pattern of delay in acknowledging losses. Analysts argue his death may not significantly alter Hamas's operations. Despite leadership losses, Hamas continues its guerrilla warfare, with commanders like Izz al-Din al-Haddad expected to assume broader control.

Kobi Michael, a former Israeli Strategic Affairs official, said that Mohammed Sinwar was a more rigid and hardline figure than his brother Yahya and held sway over battlefield tactics. His death could further shift power to Hamas’s overseas leadership, seen as relatively more open to negotiations.

Israel’s campaign to eliminate Hamas’s leadership has seen the deaths of top political and military figures, including Ismail Haniyeh and Mohammed Deif in 2024, and Yahya Sinwar near Rafah. Despite these setbacks, Israeli intelligence estimates Hamas retains around 20,000 fighters.