Hamas leader escapes from Israel, likely hiding underground
5:59 AM EST, December 10, 2023
The Israeli media has reported the escape of Hamas leader, Yahya Sinwar, from the northern region of the Gaza Strip. Sinwar managed to flee his hiding place in a medical convoy at the start of the Israeli forces' invasion, making his way to the southern part of the enclave.
The head of Hamas managed to escape from the north of the Gaza Strip in a convoy heading south. Reports suggest he is likely hiding in tunnels under Khan Yunis - this was reported on Sunday by the Times of Israel, referencing sources from Israeli authorities.
Manhunt for Yahya Sinwar
Reports indicate that the Hamas leader escaped from the north of Gaza at the onset of the conflict. However, any additional findings by the Israeli services are marked as confidential, according to the Times of Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, announced on Wednesday that Israeli forces have surrounded a house in Khan Yunis, believed to be owned by Sinwar. The Israeli authorities suspect him of being responsible for the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7. They believe he not only made the decisions, but was also among those who planned the attack.
At 61 years old, Sinwar has been a part of Hamas for over three decades. In 1988, he received a life sentence from an Israeli court for the murder of Israeli soldiers and Palestinians who collaborated with Israel. After spending 22 years in prison post-verdict, he was released as one of the approximately 1000 Palestinians exchanged for Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, who was kidnapped by Hamas.
Qatar advocates for a ceasefire
During this time, the Qatari Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani stated on Sunday that he would continue to strive for a truce in the Gaza Strip.
Despite the dwindling hope for such a resolution, Qatar will continue urging Israel to establish a ceasefire in its conflict with Hamas, assured the Sheikh during the annual Forum held in Qatar's capital.
He reminded the attendees that the release of Hamas hostages took place through negotiations rather than Israeli military operations.
