A video has surfaced showing Yahya Sinwar, leader of Hamas, fleeing into a tunnel with his family just hours before the group launched its October 7 attack on Israel. The footage, which has gained widespread attention on social media, shows Sinwar moving supplies, including food and water, into an underground tunnel in Gaza.
The video, reportedly recorded on the night of October 6, depicts Sinwar making several trips between the surface and the tunnel with his family. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed the authenticity of the footage, noting that it was discovered during an ongoing intelligence operation.
Securing His Own Safety
The footage reveals Sinwar taking precautions for his family’s safety just before Hamas militants carried out a coordinated attack against Israel. The assault on October 7 led to widespread destruction and the loss of over 1,200 lives in Southern Israel, prompting strong retaliation from Israel.
The discovery of this footage has led to criticism from various quarters, with some questioning why Sinwar took such measures for his personal protection while Gaza faced heavy bombardment. The video, now viral, shows Sinwar and his family carrying supplies into the tunnels, raising concerns over the prioritization of his family’s safety.
IDF’s Reaction
An IDF spokesperson confirmed that the video was found as part of ongoing efforts to track Hamas leadership. In a statement, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, IDF’s chief spokesperson, said, “Sinwar’s death is the result of a year of focused operational and intelligence efforts. While we have successfully targeted several key figures, our work continues.“
The footage also shows the apparent preparations Sinwar and his family made in anticipation of Israel’s response to the attacks launched by Hamas.
Public Response
The release of the footage has drawn strong reactions online, with many sharing the video and discussing the implications. Some see it as further evidence of how Hamas leaders operate from underground while ordinary citizens face the brunt of the conflict.
October 7 Attack and Its Aftermath
The October 7 Hamas attack marked a significant escalation in the conflict, with the assault killing over 1,200 people and leading to the capture of hostages. Israel responded with targeted airstrikes, which have since intensified the situation in Gaza. Sinwar, widely viewed as a key architect of the attack, had been on Israel’s radar for some time due to his leadership role in Hamas.
Since then, the Israeli military has been actively targeting Hamas leaders, and this footage further underscores the intensity of efforts to dismantle the group’s operational leadership.
The IDF has stated that their operations to target Hamas leadership will continue, with a focus on neutralizing key figures in the organization.
For more updates, you can watch the full statement by IDF spokesperson RAdm. Daniel Hagari here.
