Official statements from the Israeli government or major news outlets

Israel Confirms Death of Hamas Leader; Biden Calls Sinwar's Death a 'Good Day for World,' Harris Declares 'Justice Served'

Oct 17, 2024, 06:17 PM

Israel has confirmed the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in an attack on Gaza, with DNA tests verifying his identity. U.S. President Joe Biden stated that Sinwar's death is "a good day for Israel, for the United States, and for the world." Biden compared the relief felt by Israelis to that experienced by Americans after the death of Osama bin Laden in 2011, noting that with U.S. intelligence assistance, the Israel Defense Forces relentlessly pursued Hamas's leaders. He added that "Hamas is no longer capable of carrying out another October 7" and emphasized the opportunity for a "day after" in Gaza without Hamas in power, leading to a political settlement for Israelis and Palestinians. Biden announced plans to speak with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss bringing hostages home and ending the war. Vice President Kamala Harris said that "justice has been served" and that Sinwar had "American blood on his hands." She declared that "Hamas is decimated and its leadership is eliminated," stating that Sinwar's death provides an opportunity to "finally end the war in Gaza." Harris emphasized the need for Israel's security, the release of hostages, an end to the suffering in Gaza, and for the Palestinian people to realize their right to dignity.