Who is Mohammed al-Sinwar, Hamas military commander?
Mohammed al-Sinwar, the younger brother of former Hamas leader Yahya al-Sinwar, is regarded as one of the key military strategists of Hamas’ armed wing, the Qassam Brigades.
His name has been tied to some of the movement’s most significant operations:
- October 7 attack (2023): Played a central role in planning the large-scale assault.
- Commander of Khan Younis Brigade: Oversaw one of Hamas’s most critical military sectors in southern Gaza.
- Architect of the tunnel network: Credited with engineering Gaza’s vast underground system, which posed a major challenge to 'Israeli' forces.
Born in 1975 in Khan Younis refugee camp to a family displaced from a village near Ashkelon in 1948, Mohammed grew up deeply involved in the movement’s activities alongside his brother Yahya. Known for his uncompromising leadership, he reportedly took part in the execution of suspected collaborators with 'Israel'.
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He was briefly detained by 'Israeli' forces in 1991, and later imprisoned by Palestinian security forces under 'Israeli' pressure. During this period, he forged close ties with leaders who would go on to become pillars of the Qassam Brigades, including Mohammed Deif.
The Shalit operation: securing his brother’s release
Mohammed al-Sinwar rose to prominence in 2006 when he masterminded the abduction of 'Israeli' soldier Gilad Shalit. He personally oversaw Shalit’s captivity, with the aim of ensuring his brother Yahya’s inclusion in a future prisoner exchange.
Former 'Israeli' security officials have acknowledged that Mohammed’s influence was decisive in securing the 2011 deal that freed Yahya al-Sinwar after decades in prison.
A top target for 'Israel'
For more than two decades, Mohammed al-Sinwar has been one of 'Israel’s' most wanted men, surviving numerous assassination attempts. His home was destroyed multiple times, yet he evaded targeted strikes and continued to consolidate his influence.
A former 'Israeli' security official admitted that “many operations were carried out to eliminate him, but all failed,” cementing his reputation as a resilient and elusive commander.
Mohammed al-Sinwar was considered a central figure in Hamas’ military strategy, combining operational experience, intelligence, and the trust of the movement’s senior leadership.
