Gaza: Yahya Sinwar, the former Hamas leader and orchestrator of the October 7 attack on Israel, was killed during an Israeli military operation on October 16. His death revealed the stark contrast between his lavish lifestyle and the dire conditions faced by ordinary Gazans.
Found in a bunker in Khan Younis, Gaza, Sinwar’s living quarters were stocked with luxuries, including a fully equipped kitchen with supplies from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). This has led to accusations that Hamas intercepted humanitarian aid meant for civilians. The bunker also featured multiple bathrooms and modern amenities, including a personal shower, showcasing the disparity between Sinwar’s life and that of the impoverished populace above ground.
Stunning wealth and arsenal
In addition to the basic comforts, the bunker housed a major cache of weapons, ammunition and explosives, indicating Sinwar’s preparedness for a prolonged conflict. Reports suggest that he had millions of shekels in cash stored in a safe beside his bed, worsening allegations of corruption within Hamas leadership, which has long been criticised for amassing wealth while ordinary Palestinians suffer under the blockade.
As Israeli forces intensified operations in Khan Younis, Sinwar fled south to Rafah, where he was eventually found in a second, more luxurious tunnel complex designed for Hamas leaders. IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari described this complex as well-equipped, with television, food and communication facilities.
Sinwar’s downfall
Israeli forces tracked Sinwar’s movements through intelligence and DNA evidence, ultimately confirming his identity as he was targeted by soldiers. His family reportedly fled into the tunnels with personal supplies, including a USD 32,000 Birkin handbag carried by his wife, which drew further criticism of Hamas leaders’ extravagant lifestyles amid the suffering of Gazans. Hagari said, “What we showed tonight proves again that the leaders of the Hamas terrorist organisation do not care about the price that the people of Gaza pay.”
