Hamas leader was reportedly not involved in the final formulation of Hamas’ response to Israel on the question of the hostage deal, according to reports this evening (Thursday). This assessment is based on the document sent by Hamas to the mediators and to Israel stating that the Hamas leadership in Gaza needs to give its own separate approval.
According to those involved in negotiations, Yahya Sinwar has been cut off from senior Hamas leaders for weeks (including during the Paris summit), and was therefore not involved in formulating the answer to Israel and the mediators on conditions for a hostage deal.
Earlier today, Defense Minister Gallant issued a statement and sent a direct message to Sinwar: “Hamas is fighting a war of crime and murder, and Yahya Sinwar is partying with his family. This has ended. Yahya Sinwar has turned from a leader of a terrorist organization into a fugitive terrorist.”