The killing of Yahya Sinwar, one of Israel’s most wanted adversaries, has been hailed as a significant victory for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. However, in a nation fatigued by prolonged conflict, Sinwar’s death is intensifying calls for a resolution to the ongoing hostilities in Gaza and the safe return of hostages.
Netanyahu described Sinwar’s demise as “the beginning of the end” of a conflict that has expanded its reach to Lebanon and Yemen. He affirmed that the confrontation could conclude if Hamas lays down its arms and releases the 101 Israeli and foreign hostages held in Gaza.
“We now have an opportunity to use this moment to close the front in Gaza,” said Shira Efron, senior director of policy research at the Diane and Guilford Glazer Foundation. “This strikes at the heart of Israeli society; they’ve avenged the mastermind Sinwar.”
The response from Hamas remains uncertain. Sinwar was reportedly filmed by an Israeli drone while wounded in a ruined building in Gaza. His body was recovered and identified by Israeli forces. On Friday, Khalil Al-Hayya, deputy head of Hamas, stated that hostages would not be returned until Israeli aggression ceased and forces withdrew.
Some of Netanyahu’s hardline allies, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, insist that Israel should not halt operations until the “complete surrender” of Hamas. However, with discussions of a potential “inflection point” emerging from the White House, even supporters of Israel’s firm stance see an opportunity for peace.
“I think Netanyahu said the right thing last night. Give us the hostages, and when everyone—the hostages—returns, we’ll leave,” said Erez Goldman, a resident of Jerusalem.
A significant segment of Israeli opinion holds that peace can only be achieved through decisive military victories, even if it strains international relationships. Netanyahu has resisted international pressure for a ceasefire, including appeals from U.S. President Joe Biden. The elimination of militant leaders like Sinwar is seen by many as justification for Israel’s steadfast approach.
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Netanyahu faces pressure to end Gaza conflict after killing of Sinwar
cgtn.com
