Israel says it has confirmed the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar – after pictures emerged purporting to show his body buried in rubble.

The 62-year-old, who has led Hamas within Gaza since 2017, is believed to be the mastermind of the 7 October 2023 attacks.

Israeli foreign minister Israel Katz made the claim following DNA tests and other checks on a body found in Gaza.

He said officials could now confirm Sinwar was “killed today by IDF [Israeli Defence Forces] soldiers”.

Mr Katz added that his death was a “great military and moral achievement for Israel”.

“The elimination of Sinwar creates an opportunity for the immediate release of the hostages and a potential change that could lead to a new reality in Gaza – without Hamas and without Iranian control.”

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