Archive · 8 Jan 2026
Hamas Military Chief Mohammad Sinwar Dies
Mohammad Sinwar was a very important leader in Hamas, a group in the Gaza Strip.
He was in charge of their military and was known for planning big attacks against Israel.
Israel wanted to stop him and tried many times to kill him.
Finally, they said they killed him in May 2025, and Hamas announced his death later.
He was a hard worker and a very secretive person.
His death might change how Hamas makes decisions, but the group is still strong.
He was born in Gaza and joined Hamas when he was young.
He was very good at hiding and planning attacks, which made him a big target for Israel.
Mohammad Sinwar, the head of Hamas' armed forces, died on December 29, 2024, aged 49.
Israel claimed responsibility for his death, announcing it in May 2025 and retrieving his body in Gaza.
Sinwar played a central role in planning the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel and the 2006 abduction of Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit.
He was known for his clandestine operations and survived many Israeli assassination attempts.
His death is expected to leave Izzeldeen Haddad in charge of Hamas' armed wing across Gaza.
- Who
- Mohammad Sinwar, Hamas military chief
- What
- Death of Mohammad Sinwar, head of Hamas' armed forces
- When
- December 29, 2024 (announced), around seven months after Israel claimed to have killed him in May 2025
- Where
- Gaza
- Why
- Hamas confirmed his death, Israel claimed responsibility for his killing
- Name
- Mohammad Sinwar
- Age at Death
- 49
- Date of Death
- December 29, 2024
- Role
- Head of Hamas' armed forces
- Notable Actions
- Planned October 7, 2023 attack on Israel
- Successor
- Izzeldeen Haddad
- Birth Date
- September 16, 1975
- Education
- UNRWA-run schools