Macron calls Hamas leader's death a 'turning point' in Gaza war

A Houthi supporter holds a poster of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, killed on Thursday in Gaza, during a protest in Sanaa, Yemen, in April 2024.

French President Emmanuel Macron has described the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar during an Israeli raid on Thursday as a "turning point" and an opportunity to "finally end" the Gaza war.

Israel’s Defence Forces (IDF) said Sinwar – a key figure behind last year’s 7 October attack on Israel – was killed during a battle in Gaza.

Macron praised the "military success" and reiterated French demands for the release of all hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza.

Sinwar, described as the mastermind of the assault that ignited the war, was reportedly killed when IDF troops stumbled upon him during a fight, later realising that a body found in the rubble was that of Israel’s most-wanted man.

Israeli officials hailed his death as a major victory. “Hamas will no longer rule Gaza. This is the start of the day after Hamas,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said.

Sinwar's killing comes after Hamas's political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, was killed in the Iranian capital, Tehran, in July. Sinwar was subsequently named as Hamas's overall leader.

In response to his death, Iran's Mission to the UN said the "spirit of [Palestinian] resistance will be strengthened" and that Sinwar would "become a model for the youth and children who will carry forward his path toward the liberation of Palestine".

Tensions


Read more on RFI English

Read also:
France's Macron urges halt to arms exports destined for Israel's use in Gaza
Macron condemns Iran's attacks, mobilises French military in Middle East
Israel slams Macron as a 'disgrace' over French arms fair ban