Israel’s killing of top Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar has raised global concerns about the direction of the conflict in Gaza. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated on Friday that Sinwar’s death has created a “golden opportunity” for achieving a lasting ceasefire in Gaza.
Speaking at a NATO press conference in Brussels, Austin described the killing of Sinwar as a “significant achievement” that provides a major opportunity for progress in negotiations.
“Sinwar spent his life undermining peace opportunities between Israelis and Palestinians. He has finally faced justice,” Austin said, adding that the top priority for the US is to secure the release of hostages still held in Gaza.
On Thursday, the Israeli military announced the killing of Sinwar in a military operation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel will continue to fight unless Hamas surrenders and releases all hostages held in Gaza.
In response to this statement, Austin on Friday stated, “We will observe how the situation evolves.”
“But clearly, there is an opportunity for a change in direction now,” he said. “We hope all parties in Gaza and Lebanon will take advantage of this opportunity.”
Austin also reiterated that US forces in the Middle East are prepared to support Israel’s defense at any time.
In a statement released on the Pentagon’s website, Austin called the killing of Sinwar a significant achievement in the fight against terrorism. He stated that while Sinwar’s death will not heal the wounds caused by the violent incident he orchestrated on October 7 or bring back those who lost their lives, “I hope it can bring some justice and comfort to the many victims and their families affected by Sinwar’s planned heinous acts.”
Austin stated on Friday that after the Gaza conflict ends, the US is “very likely” to play a role in efforts to stabilize the situation in Gaza, but this will require coordination with allies in the region.
He emphasized the first step is to ensure “some form of ceasefire” and then to “take the right steps to stabilize the region.”