Israel releases new footage of former Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar prior to October 7 attack
PTC News Desk: The Israeli military has released newly uncovered footage of former Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, recorded just before the deadly October 7, 2023, attack on Israel that led to a full-scale war between Israel and Hamas. Sinwar, who masterminded the assault that claimed the lives of over 1,200 Israeli civilians, was seen in the video preparing for the event.
The video, dated October 6, 2023, shows Yahya Sinwar, along with his wife and children, in an underground tunnel system. They were seen carrying supplies into the bunker that was later discovered by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The footage portrays Sinwar moving equipment, including a television set, into the underground hideout, presumably in preparation for the attack.
IDF Spokesperson Nadav Shoshani, who shared the footage, commented, "Sinwar hours before the October 7 massacre: taking down his TV into his tunnel, hiding underneath his civilians, and preparing to watch his terrorists murder, kidnap, and rape." This statement highlights Sinwar's role as the orchestrator of the attacks and his efforts to shield himself by using civilians as cover.
Yahya Sinwar, aged 61, took over the leadership of Hamas from Ismail Haniyeh in July 2023, making him one of Israel’s most wanted figures. His leadership culminated in the October 7 attack, sparking a devastating conflict between Israel and Hamas. Sinwar was killed on October 17, 2023, in Rafah during an encounter with Israeli forces.
The IDF had previously released another video showing Sinwar's final moments. In this drone footage, Sinwar was seen slumped in a chair, his hand bleeding and covered in dust, before he weakly threw a stick at the drone hovering overhead—a last act of defiance or desperation.
As part of its broader campaign against Hamas, the Israeli military dropped leaflets over southern Gaza showing an image of Sinwar’s body with blood running down his forehead. The leaflets read, “Sinwar destroyed your lives,” urging Hamas militants to surrender and return the hostages. The message also offered amnesty to those who lay down their weapons, promising safe passage for those who comply.
This footage and the ongoing Israeli military operations mark a significant moment in the continuing conflict between Israel and Hamas, as Israel targets key figures responsible for the attacks and attempts to dismantle the militant group's leadership.
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- With inputs from agencies
