On Thursday, October 17th, Israel announced that it had killed Yahya Sinwar, the top leader of Hamas. Sinwar was the mastermind behind the attack on Israel that sparked the Gaza War on October 7, 2023.
Former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump stated on Friday that Sinwar’s death makes peace more attainable. Trump also mentioned plans to have discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the near future.
Regarding the potential for peace in Gaza after Sinwar’s death, Trump expressed optimism, saying, “I think this will make things easier.” He made these remarks to reporters upon his arrival in Detroit.
Following a meeting with German and French leaders, President Biden also commented on the situation, stating, “We believe there is a path to peace. It will be difficult. It will be very hard. But we are all on the same page.”
Biden mentioned the possibility of finding a temporary resolution to the conflict between Israel and Iran, which could potentially halt the ongoing back-and-forth. He also addressed the challenges of achieving a ceasefire in Lebanon and highlighted the complexities of a ceasefire in Gaza.
Biden emphasized that he is clear on how and when Israel will respond to Iran’s missile attacks on October 1. After the meeting with European leaders, Biden is expected to meet with the National Security team aboard Air Force One to discuss the latest developments in the Middle East.
US officials stated that among the administration’s top priorities is securing the release of hostages still held by Hamas. Biden has directed his team to maintain close contact with Israel following Sinwar’s death, with plans for a personal call with Netanyahu in the coming days.
According to Israeli sources speaking to CNN, Sinwar’s body may be used as leverage to negotiate the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Currently, Sinwar’s remains are kept at a secret location in Israel.
Two sources revealed to CNN that securing the release of the 100 hostages taken in the Hamas attack remains a top priority for Israel. An Israeli official mentioned that authorities are exploring ways to exert pressure swiftly for the release of the hostages.