Hezbollah vows escalation after Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar killed by Israel

Lebanon’s Hezbollah militant group announced on Friday that it is entering a new phase of escalation in its war against Israel, following the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. Iran echoed Hezbollah’s sentiment, stating that Sinwar’s death would strengthen the spirit of resistance.

Sinwar, who masterminded the October 7, 2023 attack that led to the Gaza war, was killed during an Israeli military operation in Gaza on Wednesday, Reuters reported.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue the war until all hostages captured by Hamas militants were returned.

In a video statement, Netanyahu emphasized that while Sinwar’s death dealt a blow to Hamas, the mission to bring hostages home was still far from complete. He reassured the families of Israeli hostages that the operation would continue with full force.

Sinwar, who had been hiding in the network of tunnels built by Hamas under Gaza, was killed during a gunfight with Israeli soldiers. The military released drone footage showing Sinwar in the aftermath of the attack.

While Hamas has not officially commented on Sinwar’s death, sources within the group suggested that the evidence points to Sinwar being killed during the Israeli operation. His death has been seen as a pivotal moment in the year-long conflict.

Despite hopes from Western leaders that Sinwar’s death might pave the way for a ceasefire, tensions in the Middle East are likely to escalate further. Hezbollah and Iran have signaled their defiance, while Israel continues its military campaign.

U.S. President Joe Biden expressed hope that Sinwar’s death could open a window for peace talks and the return of hostages. However, Iran and Hezbollah’s defiant stances complicate efforts to de-escalate the conflict.

While Sinwar’s death is seen as a significant moment in the conflict, it is unlikely to bring immediate peace. Hezbollah’s escalation and Iran’s firm stance indicate that the region may face further hostilities. At the same time, families of Israeli hostages continue to wait for the return of their loved ones, while Palestinians vow to keep up their resistance.

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