The International Criminal Court chief prosecutor Karim Khan,&nbsp;on Monday (May 20) sought arrest warrants for Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the October 7 attacks on Israel and the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;

The ICC chief prosecutor has also sought arrest warrants for Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Hamas leaders Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al-Masri (Deif) and Ismail Haniyeh.&nbsp;

<h2>What are the accusations against them?</h2>

The ICC prosecutor’s office said it suspected all five – Israeli PM, defence minister and Hamas leaders – bore criminal responsibility for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Israel or the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

In a statement, Khan’s office said Hamas leader Sinwar, leader of the Al Qassem Brigades (Hamas’ armed wing) Deif, and Hamas political leader Haniyeh have been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed on Israel and Gaza Strip from “at least” October 7.

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The Hamas leaders have been accused of extermination as a crime against humanity, murder, and taking hostages as a war crime, according to the statement by Khan’s office.&nbsp;

Additionally, in the context of captivity, the Hamas leaders have also been accused of rape and other acts of sexual violence, torture, other inhumane acts as a crime against humanity, cruel treatment, and outrage upon personal dignity as a war crime.&nbsp;

“The world was shocked on the 7th of October when people were ripped from their bedrooms, from their homes, from the different kibbutzim in Israel,” Khan told CNN in an interview, adding that “people have suffered enormously.”

According to the statement by Khan’s office, Netanyahu and Gallant have been accused of using starvation of civilians as a method of warfare; wilfully causing great suffering, or serious injury to body or health; wilful killing or murder; intentionally directing attacks against a civilian population; extermination and/or murder; and persecution and other inhumane acts as crimes against humanity.&nbsp;

Last month, Netanyahu had said any ICC arrest warrants against senior Israeli government and military officials “would be an outrage of historic proportions.”

When asked about the Israeli PM’s comments, the ICC chief prosecutor told CNN, “Nobody is above the law.”

He added that if Israel disagrees with the ICC, “they are free, notwithstanding their objections to jurisdiction, to raise a challenge before the judges of the court and that’s what I advise them to do.”&nbsp;

<h2>What next?</h2>

A panel of ICC judges will now consider Khan’s application for the arrest warrants. It will now be up to the court’s pre-trial judges to determine if there is sufficient evidence to issue warrants.

Notably, the ICC prosecutor in 2021 opened a probe into possible war crimes committed by Israel as well as Hamas and other armed Palestinian groups in the Palestinian territories.&nbsp;

Legal experts have told AFP that Hamas and Israel could face war crimes charges over the conflict.&nbsp;

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While Israel is not a member of the ICC, the Hague-based court claims to have jurisdiction over Gaza, East Jerusalem and the West Bank. However, even if the arrest warrants are issued, Netanyahu and Gallant do not face any immediate risk of prosecution.

The application for the arrest warrants filed on Monday is also separate from the case that is being heard by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over an accusation from South Africa that Israel was committing genocide in Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>Outrage over application</h2>

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz called the ICC chief prosecutor’s decision “a historic disgrace that will be remembered forever.”&nbsp;

Katz also vowed to form a special committee to fight back against any such action and also work with world leaders to ensure no such warrants are enforced on Israeli leaders. &nbsp;

Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri, as per Reuters said that the decision “equates the victim with the executioner” and encourages Israel to continue its “war of extermination” in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The International Criminal Court chief prosecutor Karim Khan, on Monday (May 20) sought arrest warrants for Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the October 7 attacks on Israel and the ongoing war in Gaza.

The International Criminal Court chief prosecutor Karim Khan, on Monday (May 20) sought arrest warrants for Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the October 7 attacks on Israel and the ongoing war in Gaza. The ICC chief prosecutor has also sought arrest warrants for Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Hamas leaders Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al-Masri (Deif) and Ismail Haniyeh. What are the accusations against them? The ICC prosecutor’s office said it suspected all five – Israeli PM, defence minister and Hamas leaders – bore criminal responsibility for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Israel or the Gaza Strip. In a statement, Khan’s office said Hamas leader Sinwar, leader of the Al Qassem Brigades (Hamas’ armed wing) Deif, and Hamas political leader Haniyeh have been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed on Israel and Gaza Strip from “at least” October 7. Also Read | Ebrahim Raisi death: It wasn't us, says Israel on Iran president's chopper crash The Hamas leaders have been accused of extermination as a crime against humanity, murder, and taking hostages as a war crime, according to the statement by Khan’s office. Additionally, in the context of captivity, the Hamas leaders have also been accused of rape and other acts of sexual violence, torture, other inhumane acts as a crime against humanity, cruel treatment, and outrage upon personal dignity as a war crime. “The world was shocked on the 7th of October when people were ripped from their bedrooms, from their homes, from the different kibbutzim in Israel,” Khan told CNN in an interview, adding that “people have suffered enormously.” According to the statement by Khan’s office, Netanyahu and Gallant have been accused of using starvation of civilians as a method of warfare; wilfully causing great suffering, or serious injury to body or health; wilful killing or murder; intentionally directing attacks against a civilian population; extermination and/or murder; and persecution and other inhumane acts as crimes against humanity. Last month, Netanyahu had said any ICC arrest warrants against senior Israeli government and military officials “would be an outrage of historic proportions.” When asked about the Israeli PM’s comments, the ICC chief prosecutor told CNN, “Nobody is above the law.” He added that if Israel disagrees with the ICC, “they are free, notwithstanding their objections to jurisdiction, to raise a challenge before the judges of the court and that’s what I advise them to do.” What next? A panel of ICC judges will now consider Khan’s application for the arrest warrants. It will now be up to the court’s pre-trial judges to determine if there is sufficient evidence to issue warrants. Notably, the ICC prosecutor in 2021 opened a probe into possible war crimes committed by Israel as well as Hamas and other armed Palestinian groups in the Palestinian territories. Legal experts have told AFP that Hamas and Israel could face war crimes charges over the conflict. Also Read | Meet Taiwan's new president Lai Ching-te, a 'severe danger' for China While Israel is not a member of the ICC, the Hague-based court claims to have jurisdiction over Gaza, East Jerusalem and the West Bank. However, even if the arrest warrants are issued, Netanyahu and Gallant do not face any immediate risk of prosecution. The application for the arrest warrants filed on Monday is also separate from the case that is being heard by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over an accusation from South Africa that Israel was committing genocide in Gaza. Outrage over application Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz called the ICC chief prosecutor’s decision “a historic disgrace that will be remembered forever.” Katz also vowed to form a special committee to fight back against any such action and also work with world leaders to ensure no such warrants are enforced on Israeli leaders. Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri, as per Reuters said that the decision “equates the victim with the executioner” and encourages Israel to continue its “war of extermination” in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

International Criminal Court prosecutor seeks arrest warrants for Netanyahu, 3 Hamas leaders

Israel has indicated no signs of scaling down its offensive in Gaza. Israeli leaders have once again reiterated that fighting will end only with the elimination of Hamas. Hamas says at least 187 died across Gaza on Friday in Israeli shelling.

Israel-Hamas war | 187 killed across Gaza in past 24 hours: Hamas-run Health Ministry

Israel-Hamas war: IDF says it destroyed the hideout of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in Gaza city

Hamas leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar, in his first public message since the Oct 7 assault, said that the militant group was facing a “fierce, violent and unprecedented battle” against Israel, as per the Times of Israel reports.

However, Sinwar also claimed that the Palestinian militant group was on its way to crushing the Israel Defense Forces and that Hamas would not submit to “the occupation’s conditions.”

According to the Times Of Israel, Sinwar falsely claimed that the al-Qassam Brigades, which is the military wing of Hamas,&nbsp;killed over a thousand Israeli soldiers.

Hamas on Sunday (Dec 24) released footage which it said showed the group's military wing, Al-Qassam Brigade, fighting with the Israeli military in the northern Gaza Strip.

As per news agency Reuters, the footage appears to show the Palestinian group's militants using rocket-propelled grenades to engage in gunfire amongst the rubble of destroyed buildings.

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<h2>Israeli strikes on Gaza kills 200 in 24 hours, claims Hamas</h2>

Meanwhile, Gaza officials on Saturday (Dec 23) said that the Israeli strikes had claimed the lives of more than 200 people in 24 hours amidst an upsurge in attacks in the West Bank.

Israel continued with its counter-offensive aiming at the southern Gaza Strip, with clouds of grey and black smoke rising over Khan Yunis city, as per news agency AFP reports.

In the past 24 hours, at least 201 deaths were reported by the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, taking the toll to 20,258 since the war broke out, and most of the victims were women and children as per claims by Hamas.

The fighting between the two sides began when the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, killing about 1,140 Israelis, mostly civilians.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Hamas leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar, in his first public message since the Oct 7 assault, said that the militant group was facing a “fierce, violent and unprecedented battle” against Israel, as per the Times of Israel reports.

Hamas leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar, in his first public message since the Oct 7 assault, said that the militant group was facing a “fierce, violent and unprecedented battle” against Israel, as per the Times of Israel reports. However, Sinwar also claimed that the Palestinian militant group was on its way to crushing the Israel Defense Forces and that Hamas would not submit to “the occupation’s conditions.” According to the Times Of Israel, Sinwar falsely claimed that the al-Qassam Brigades, which is the military wing of Hamas, killed over a thousand Israeli soldiers. Hamas on Sunday (Dec 24) released footage which it said showed the group's military wing, Al-Qassam Brigade, fighting with the Israeli military in the northern Gaza Strip. As per news agency Reuters, the footage appears to show the Palestinian group's militants using rocket-propelled grenades to engage in gunfire amongst the rubble of destroyed buildings. Also read: Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu says visited Gaza, vows to 'intensify' fighting Israeli strikes on Gaza kills 200 in 24 hours, claims Hamas Meanwhile, Gaza officials on Saturday (Dec 23) said that the Israeli strikes had claimed the lives of more than 200 people in 24 hours amidst an upsurge in attacks in the West Bank. Israel continued with its counter-offensive aiming at the southern Gaza Strip, with clouds of grey and black smoke rising over Khan Yunis city, as per news agency AFP reports. In the past 24 hours, at least 201 deaths were reported by the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, taking the toll to 20,258 since the war broke out, and most of the victims were women and children as per claims by Hamas. The fighting between the two sides began when the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, killing about 1,140 Israelis, mostly civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

Yahya Sinwar releases first public message since Oct 7, says Hamas facing ‘unprecedented battle’

According to the IDF, Israeli soldiers discovered a network of tunnels that extend deep beneath the heart of Gaza City and are connected to residences owned by senior Hamas organizers Yahya Sinwar and others who planned the October 7 attacks on Israel.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel finds tunnels under homes of Yahya Sinwar | Hamas chief's narrow escape

Israeli forces uncovered a network of tunnels running deep beneath central Gaza City from properties registered to Yahya Sinwar and other senior Hamas organizers of the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, the military said on Wednesday.

Israel-Hamas war: IDF ‘almost catches’ Yahya Sinwar | Tunnels from Hamas leaders' homes found by IDF

Israeli Defense Forces have successfully reached the tunnels in Gaza twice almost catching hold of the top Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. According to the reports Sinwar had narrowly escaped from The Tunnel right before the IDF managed to reach him.

Israel-Hamas war | Reports: IDF 'almost' caught top Hamas leader

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) has said that Hamas's top leader Yahya Sinwar narrowly evaded capture during its combat operations in southern Gaza.

According to Israeli media reports on Wednesday (Dec 20), Sinwar is believed to be hiding in tunnels under Gaza’s southern city of Khan Younis, after fleeing the north by hiding in a humanitarian convoy moving to the south during the early days of the terror group’s war with Israel.

It is reported that Sinwar managed to escape just before the Israeli forces arrived.

According to Channel 13, IDF has been primarily focusing its operations around Khan Younis city in order to achieve its goal of killing Sinwar.

On Sunday, they raided the homes of several Hamas leaders, Sinwar being one of them.

<h2>Sinwar evading capture&nbsp;</h2>

The IDF intelligence believes that Sinwar has never remained stationary in one place and has constantly been on the move for an extended period.

On December 6, the IDF reportedly surrounded his home in Khan Younis despite there being no indication that he was residing there. It is understood that he owns multiple homes and has been hiding in one of them.

Yahya Sinwar is suspected to have engineered Hamas's&nbsp;October 7 attack on Israel, which killed at least 1200 Israelis, including civilians. He replaced Ismail Haniyeh to become the leader of Hamas in Gaza in 2017.&nbsp;Haniyeh resides in Qatar and serves as the chair of the terror group’s political bureau.

Born in the Khan Younis refugee camp, the 61-year-old was elected Hamas&nbsp;leader in Gaza in 2017.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-a-matter-of-time-israeli-forces-close-in-on-hamas-co-founder-founders-yahya-sinwar-667119">‘Only a matter of time’: Israeli forces close in on Hamas co-founder Yahya Sinwar</a>

He spent more than two decades behind bars in Israel, before being freed 12 years ago in a deal his brother helped negotiate.

<h2>Sinwar's rise&nbsp;</h2>

He was arrested in 1988 and sentenced to consecutive life terms after being accused of&nbsp;planning the abduction and murder of two Israeli soldiers and the murder of four Palestinians.

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He previously headed the Al-Majd security apparatus which tracked, killed, and punished Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israel's secret service before he was jailed.

Israelis assume Sinwar is hiding underground somewhere in Gaza, negotiating with world powers over hostage releases.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) has said that Hamas's top leader Yahya Sinwar narrowly evaded capture during its combat operations in southern Gaza. According to Israeli media reports on Wednesday (Dec 20), Sinwar is believed to be hiding in tunnels under Gaza’s southern city of Khan Younis, after fleeing the north by hiding in a humanitarian convoy moving to the south during the early days of the terror group’s war with Israel.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) has said that Hamas's top leader Yahya Sinwar narrowly evaded capture during its combat operations in southern Gaza. According to Israeli media reports on Wednesday (Dec 20), Sinwar is believed to be hiding in tunnels under Gaza’s southern city of Khan Younis, after fleeing the north by hiding in a humanitarian convoy moving to the south during the early days of the terror group’s war with Israel. It is reported that Sinwar managed to escape just before the Israeli forces arrived. According to Channel 13, IDF has been primarily focusing its operations around Khan Younis city in order to achieve its goal of killing Sinwar. On Sunday, they raided the homes of several Hamas leaders, Sinwar being one of them. Sinwar evading capture The IDF intelligence believes that Sinwar has never remained stationary in one place and has constantly been on the move for an extended period. On December 6, the IDF reportedly surrounded his home in Khan Younis despite there being no indication that he was residing there. It is understood that he owns multiple homes and has been hiding in one of them. Yahya Sinwar is suspected to have engineered Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel, which killed at least 1200 Israelis, including civilians. He replaced Ismail Haniyeh to become the leader of Hamas in Gaza in 2017. Haniyeh resides in Qatar and serves as the chair of the terror group’s political bureau. Born in the Khan Younis refugee camp, the 61-year-old was elected Hamas leader in Gaza in 2017. Also read | ‘Only a matter of time’: Israeli forces close in on Hamas co-founder Yahya Sinwar He spent more than two decades behind bars in Israel, before being freed 12 years ago in a deal his brother helped negotiate. Sinwar's rise He was arrested in 1988 and sentenced to consecutive life terms after being accused of planning the abduction and murder of two Israeli soldiers and the murder of four Palestinians. Also read | ‘Won’t stop fighting’: Netanyahu rules out stopping war until Hamas elimination He previously headed the Al-Majd security apparatus which tracked, killed, and punished Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israel's secret service before he was jailed. Israelis assume Sinwar is hiding underground somewhere in Gaza, negotiating with world powers over hostage releases. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar again gives the slip to Israeli troops, narrowly evades capture

As the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) close in on one of Hamas co-founders Yahya Sinwar, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that it was “only a matter of time” for them to find the 61-year-old, who is believed to be the architect of the October 7 surprise assault.

Hours after the IDF confirmed that it “launched a combined attack on Khan Younis city, against the centres of gravity’ of the Hamas terror organisation”, the Israeli PM assured that they will wipe out the terror organisation.

"Last night I said that our forces could go anywhere in the Gaza Strip. They are currently surrounding Sinwar's house,” Netanyahu, who is fondly called Bibi, said.

“His home is not his castle, and he can flee, but it is only a matter of time until we find him," Netanyahu added.

<h2>Hiding in southern Gaza&nbsp;</h2>

According to reports, Sinwar was last located to be at number five street in northwest Khan Younis. The IDF said they have the traditional house completely surrounded.

The development on Sinwar's location came a week after IDF Chief-of-staff Herzi Halevi hinted at the man's whereabouts.

"We are asked frequently about the destruction in Gaza - Hamas is the address. Sinwar is the address," Halevi said.

Israel said that their operation in southern Gaza has been focused on weeding out the top Hamas leaders, and declaring Sinwar as "a dead man walking".

Israel military also believe that many other top Hamas officials and several of the hostages left are hiding in Khan Younis, the largest city in southern Gaza.

<h2>Who is Sinwar?</h2>

Sinwar is considered to be the de facto leader of Hamas in Gaza, since the group's political chief stays mostly in Qatar and Turkey.

Born in the Khan Younis refugee camp, the 61-year-old was elected as Hamas' leader in Gaza in 2017.

He spent more than two decades behind bars in Israel, before being freed 12 years ago in a deal his brother helped negotiate.

In early October, Sinwar outsmarted Israel with the same hostage-taking tactic — resulting in Israel's deadliest day on record.

He was arrested in 1988 and was sentenced to consecutive life terms accused of planning the abduction and murder of two Israeli soldiers and the murder of four Palestinians.

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He previously headed the Al-Majd security apparatus which tracked, killed, and punished Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israel's secret service before he was jailed.

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Israelis assume Sinwar is hiding underground somewhere in Gaza, negotiating with world powers over hostage releases.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) close in on one of Hamas co-founders Yahya Sinwar, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that it was “only a matter of time” for them to find the 61-year-old, who is believed to be the architect of the October 7 surprise assault.

As the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) close in on one of Hamas co-founders Yahya Sinwar, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that it was “only a matter of time” for them to find the 61-year-old, who is believed to be the architect of the October 7 surprise assault. Hours after the IDF confirmed that it “launched a combined attack on Khan Younis city, against the centres of gravity’ of the Hamas terror organisation”, the Israeli PM assured that they will wipe out the terror organisation. "Last night I said that our forces could go anywhere in the Gaza Strip. They are currently surrounding Sinwar's house,” Netanyahu, who is fondly called Bibi, said. “His home is not his castle, and he can flee, but it is only a matter of time until we find him," Netanyahu added. Hiding in southern Gaza According to reports, Sinwar was last located to be at number five street in northwest Khan Younis. The IDF said they have the traditional house completely surrounded. The development on Sinwar's location came a week after IDF Chief-of-staff Herzi Halevi hinted at the man's whereabouts. "We are asked frequently about the destruction in Gaza - Hamas is the address. Sinwar is the address," Halevi said. Israel said that their operation in southern Gaza has been focused on weeding out the top Hamas leaders, and declaring Sinwar as "a dead man walking". Israel military also believe that many other top Hamas officials and several of the hostages left are hiding in Khan Younis, the largest city in southern Gaza. Who is Sinwar? Sinwar is considered to be the de facto leader of Hamas in Gaza, since the group's political chief stays mostly in Qatar and Turkey. Born in the Khan Younis refugee camp, the 61-year-old was elected as Hamas' leader in Gaza in 2017. He spent more than two decades behind bars in Israel, before being freed 12 years ago in a deal his brother helped negotiate. In early October, Sinwar outsmarted Israel with the same hostage-taking tactic — resulting in Israel's deadliest day on record. He was arrested in 1988 and was sentenced to consecutive life terms accused of planning the abduction and murder of two Israeli soldiers and the murder of four Palestinians. Also read | 'Israel knew of threat to Supernova fest ahead of Hamas attack, left organisers to fend for themselves' He previously headed the Al-Majd security apparatus which tracked, killed, and punished Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israel's secret service before he was jailed. Also read | Israel approves 'minimal' increase in fuel supply to Gaza to prevent 'humanitarian collapse' Israelis assume Sinwar is hiding underground somewhere in Gaza, negotiating with world powers over hostage releases. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Only a matter of time’: Israeli forces close in on Hamas co-founder Yahya Sinwar

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar met with Israeli hostages held captive in Gaza following their abduction on October 7, local media in Israel reported Monday (Nov 27).

Sinwar spoke with them in Hebrew without an accent, and the meeting took place in an underground tunnel.

The Hamas chief assured the hostages that they “were safe with them and did not need to fear”, reported Channel 12, adding that the story has been confirmed by the Israeli security establishment.

"Hello, I am Yahya Sinwar. You are the safest here. Nothing will happen to you," he is believed to have said to the hostages, as confirmed by one of the captives released over the weekend.

<h2>Sinwar learnt Hebrew while being in prison</h2>

According to an unsourced report in Haaretz Monday, all hostages present to hear Sinwar were from Nir Oz, a kibbutz that suffered heavy losses on October 7.

After saying these words, he departed.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas truce deal extended by two more days, confirms Qatar

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Sinwar acquired his fluent Hebrew skills during his time in Israeli prison, before being released in a negotiated deal with Hamas back in 2011. He returned to Gaza the same year and now is playing a crucial role in the exchange process in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

Sinwar manages contacts through Qatar, and the assessment is that he aims to stretch the duration of the truce as much as possible, Ynet News reported.

<h2>‘Intelligent man’</h2>

According to Israeli officials' estimates, he is often found alongside other high-ranking Hamas officials in tunnels or subterranean bunkers in the southern part of the Strip.

Even Israeli officials believe he is a very “intelligent person” who spent his days in prison learning as much about Israelis as he could.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-hamas-releases-third-group-of-captives-in-exchange-for-palestinian-prisoners-663167">Also read:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war top developments| Truce extension a glimpse of hope, says UN chief</a>

“He’s a very intelligent person who invested in his intellectual development and in an in-depth understanding of Israeli society,” Betty Lahat, a former warden of Hasharon Prison and head of the Israel Prison Service’s Intelligence Department, had said last year.

He was chosen to lead Hamas in Gaza in 2017, taking over from Ismail Haniyeh.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar met with Israeli hostages held captive in Gaza following their abduction on October 7, local media in Israel reported Monday (Nov 27). Sinwar spoke with them in Hebrew without an accent, and the meeting took place in an underground tunnel.

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar met with Israeli hostages held captive in Gaza following their abduction on October 7, local media in Israel reported Monday (Nov 27). Sinwar spoke with them in Hebrew without an accent, and the meeting took place in an underground tunnel. The Hamas chief assured the hostages that they “were safe with them and did not need to fear”, reported Channel 12, adding that the story has been confirmed by the Israeli security establishment. "Hello, I am Yahya Sinwar. You are the safest here. Nothing will happen to you," he is believed to have said to the hostages, as confirmed by one of the captives released over the weekend. Sinwar learnt Hebrew while being in prison According to an unsourced report in Haaretz Monday, all hostages present to hear Sinwar were from Nir Oz, a kibbutz that suffered heavy losses on October 7. After saying these words, he departed. Watch: Israel-Hamas truce deal extended by two more days, confirms Qatar × Sinwar acquired his fluent Hebrew skills during his time in Israeli prison, before being released in a negotiated deal with Hamas back in 2011. He returned to Gaza the same year and now is playing a crucial role in the exchange process in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Sinwar manages contacts through Qatar, and the assessment is that he aims to stretch the duration of the truce as much as possible, Ynet News reported. ‘Intelligent man’ According to Israeli officials' estimates, he is often found alongside other high-ranking Hamas officials in tunnels or subterranean bunkers in the southern part of the Strip. Even Israeli officials believe he is a very “intelligent person” who spent his days in prison learning as much about Israelis as he could. Also read: Israel-Hamas war top developments| Truce extension a glimpse of hope, says UN chief “He’s a very intelligent person who invested in his intellectual development and in an in-depth understanding of Israeli society,” Betty Lahat, a former warden of Hasharon Prison and head of the Israel Prison Service’s Intelligence Department, had said last year. He was chosen to lead Hamas in Gaza in 2017, taking over from Ismail Haniyeh. (With inputs from agencies)

'Nothing will happen to you,' Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar met Israeli hostages in a tunnel

As the war in West Asia entered its second week, Israel said that it would take down Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar who is on the radar of defence forces in the wake of the October 7 onslaught, a move reportedly being taken by the Palestinian militant group on his directions. They have launched an intense operation to locate Yahya in Gaza.

Sinwar, who played a key role in orchestrating one of the most devastating attacks in Israeli history and is currently in the crosshairs of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), has also been likened to Osama bin Laden, representing an important target for Israeli authorities.

“When they chose to go full front against Israel, they signed their own death warrants," IDF Lt. Col. Peter Lerner reportedly said.

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Yahya Sinwar, a US-designated terrorist, is the current head of Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Despite facing multiple arrests by Israel and spending 24 years in Israeli prisons, he remains a significant figure in the Hamas hierarchy.

Sinwar got out in 2011 as part of a prisoner exchange for Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit.

He is held accountable for the October 7 attack, a tragic event responsible for the loss of thousands of Israeli lives. This assault by Hamas is one of the most significant breaches in Israel's defences since the Yom Kippur War in 1973.

<h2>'The face of evil'</h2>

Described by IDF Lt. Col. Richard Hecht as "the face of evil" and likened to Bin Laden, Sinwar's notoriety stemmed&nbsp;from his ruthless actions, particularly against Palestinians he perceived as collaborators.&nbsp;“He is the mastermind behind this like Bin Laden was," Hecht said.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/butchered-limbs-mutilated-raped-israeli-forensic-teams-describe-hamas-atrocities-647016">'Butchered, limbs mutilated, raped': Israeli forensic teams describe Hamas atrocities</a>

This reputation earned him the moniker "The butcher of Khan Younis." Israel's military has made it unequivocally clear that they will not rest until Sinwar is located and neutralised. Lt. Col. Hecht reiterated, "That man and his whole team are in our sights. We will get to that man."

<h2>Hamas leadership under scrutiny</h2>

Alongside Yahya Sinwar, Ismail Haniyeh, the head of Hamas' political wing, operates from a base in Qatar, where he leads a lavish lifestyle.

Information regarding last weekend's operation was known to only a select few Hamas leaders, a strategic move to maintain the element of surprise.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-warisrael-prepares-ground-assault-on-gaza-as-palestinians-flee-647095">Israel-Palestine war:Israel prepares ground assault on Gaza as Palestinians flee</a>

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What brought Haniyeh to the spotlight yet again was a viral video that started circulating on social media where the Hamas leader was seen watching the assault on Israel from his comfortable office, reportedly in Doha.

Some reports said that Haniyeh's move to lay this big an assault on Israel, widely recognised for having a robust and highly effective defence system, could be because of his ties with Iran and Qatar.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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As the war in West Asia entered its second week, Israel said that it would take down Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar who is on the radar of defence forces in the wake of the October 7 onslaught, a move reportedly being taken by the Palestinian militant group on his directions.

As the war in West Asia entered its second week, Israel said that it would take down Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar who is on the radar of defence forces in the wake of the October 7 onslaught, a move reportedly being taken by the Palestinian militant group on his directions. They have launched an intense operation to locate Yahya in Gaza. Sinwar, who played a key role in orchestrating one of the most devastating attacks in Israeli history and is currently in the crosshairs of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), has also been likened to Osama bin Laden, representing an important target for Israeli authorities. “When they chose to go full front against Israel, they signed their own death warrants," IDF Lt. Col. Peter Lerner reportedly said. Also Read | Israeli canine unit 'Oketz' saves 200 lives during Hamas attack Yahya Sinwar, a US-designated terrorist, is the current head of Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Despite facing multiple arrests by Israel and spending 24 years in Israeli prisons, he remains a significant figure in the Hamas hierarchy. Sinwar got out in 2011 as part of a prisoner exchange for Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit. He is held accountable for the October 7 attack, a tragic event responsible for the loss of thousands of Israeli lives. This assault by Hamas is one of the most significant breaches in Israel's defences since the Yom Kippur War in 1973. 'The face of evil' Described by IDF Lt. Col. Richard Hecht as "the face of evil" and likened to Bin Laden, Sinwar's notoriety stemmed from his ruthless actions, particularly against Palestinians he perceived as collaborators. “He is the mastermind behind this like Bin Laden was," Hecht said. Also Read | 'Butchered, limbs mutilated, raped': Israeli forensic teams describe Hamas atrocities This reputation earned him the moniker "The butcher of Khan Younis." Israel's military has made it unequivocally clear that they will not rest until Sinwar is located and neutralised. Lt. Col. Hecht reiterated, "That man and his whole team are in our sights. We will get to that man." Hamas leadership under scrutiny Alongside Yahya Sinwar, Ismail Haniyeh, the head of Hamas' political wing, operates from a base in Qatar, where he leads a lavish lifestyle. Information regarding last weekend's operation was known to only a select few Hamas leaders, a strategic move to maintain the element of surprise. Watch | Israel-Palestine war:Israel prepares ground assault on Gaza as Palestinians flee × What brought Haniyeh to the spotlight yet again was a viral video that started circulating on social media where the Hamas leader was seen watching the assault on Israel from his comfortable office, reportedly in Doha. Some reports said that Haniyeh's move to lay this big an assault on Israel, widely recognised for having a robust and highly effective defence system, could be because of his ties with Iran and Qatar. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

‘Butcher of Khan Younis’ Yahya Sinwar is our Osama bin Laden, will hunt him down: Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett met Islamist Ra'am Party's leader Mansour Abbas for the first time since the coalition government was effectively suspended.

Channel 13 News reported that the meeting was held to smooth out differences so that the Islamist Party ends its boycott of the coalition.

During a cabinet meeting, Bennett said ''Yesterday I heard the leader of Hamas in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, call on Mansour Abbas to break up the government.''

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''It is already clear to me at this stage that Hamas does not love this government; perhaps they miss the suitcases of dollars or they simply do not love the possibility of us all working together to improve the conditions of Israel's Arab citizens,'' he added.

After the Ra’am Party announced a two-week suspension of ties over the recent unrest at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, Israel's foreign minister Yair Lapid had also met Abbas.

The Times of Israel had reported that both Lapid and Abbas had agreed that the Ra'am Party will resume voting with the coalition after the Knesset recess ends on May 9.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-police-arrests-nine-palestinians-over-violence-at-al-aqsa-mosque-471689">Also read |&nbsp;Israeli police arrest nine Palestinians over violence at Al-Aqsa Mosque</a>

Following their meeting, Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar accused Ra’am of treachery as Abbas suggested that being part of the government will bring Israel and the Palestinians closer.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog had also spoken with the Abbas and wished him a good Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, and expressing hopes for stability and peace going forward.

According to the Shin Bet intelligence agency, a Palestinian gunman had killed an Israeli guard at the entrance of a settlement in the occupied West Bank.

The attack came after a Palestinian was shot dead by Israeli forces in the northern West Bank village of Azzun as per the health ministry of Palestine.

The recent upsurge of violence between Israel and Palestine has triggered concerns that they may slide back to a wider conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett met Islamist Ra'am Party's leader Mansour Abbas for the first time since the coalition government was effectively suspended.

Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett met Islamist Ra'am Party's leader Mansour Abbas for the first time since the coalition government was effectively suspended. Channel 13 News reported that the meeting was held to smooth out differences so that the Islamist Party ends its boycott of the coalition. During a cabinet meeting, Bennett said ''Yesterday I heard the leader of Hamas in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, call on Mansour Abbas to break up the government.'' ''It is already clear to me at this stage that Hamas does not love this government; perhaps they miss the suitcases of dollars or they simply do not love the possibility of us all working together to improve the conditions of Israel's Arab citizens,'' he added. After the Ra’am Party announced a two-week suspension of ties over the recent unrest at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, Israel's foreign minister Yair Lapid had also met Abbas. The Times of Israel had reported that both Lapid and Abbas had agreed that the Ra'am Party will resume voting with the coalition after the Knesset recess ends on May 9. Also read | Israeli police arrest nine Palestinians over violence at Al-Aqsa Mosque Following their meeting, Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar accused Ra’am of treachery as Abbas suggested that being part of the government will bring Israel and the Palestinians closer. Israeli President Isaac Herzog had also spoken with the Abbas and wished him a good Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, and expressing hopes for stability and peace going forward. According to the Shin Bet intelligence agency, a Palestinian gunman had killed an Israeli guard at the entrance of a settlement in the occupied West Bank. The attack came after a Palestinian was shot dead by Israeli forces in the northern West Bank village of Azzun as per the health ministry of Palestine. The recent upsurge of violence between Israel and Palestine has triggered concerns that they may slide back to a wider conflict. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Israeli PM Naftali Bennett meets Islamist party leader for first time since suspension of coalition government

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