Hamas leader Khalil Hayya confirmed the death of Yahya Sinwar, emphasizing that Israeli hostages would only be released if hostilities in Gaza ended and Palestinian prisoners are freed. He stated Sinwar's death would strengthen the group's resolve.

Mr. Sinwar climbed the ranks of the Palestinian militant group to plot the deadliest attack on Israel in its history.

During his 22 years in Israeli prison, Sinwar was an avid student not only of Hebrew but also of Jewish history, including pogroms. His 2011 release brought another lesson: Sinwar, known at the time as the “Butcher of Khan Yunis” for his brutality in dispatching suspected informers,