Following the announcement on October 18, 2024, that Yahya Sinwar, head of Hamas' political bureau, was killed in confrontations with Israeli forces in southern Gaza, several names have emerged as potential successors. Among them is Muhammad Ibrahim Hassan Sinwar, Yahya's younger brother and a prominent leader within Hamas.

Muhammad Sinwar is one of the longest-serving and most influential commanders of the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas' military wing. His central role in military operations positions him as a key figure within the organization.

CNN reports that while it remains unclear if Yahya left specific instructions regarding his successor, Muhammad is viewed as the most likely candidate, having recently risen to a significant military leadership role within Hamas.

Background and Responsibilities

Born on September 16, 1975, in a refugee camp in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, Muhammad received his early education in UNRWA schools. Influenced by his elder brother Yahya, he became involved in Hamas from its inception in late 1987, actively participating in resistance efforts against Israeli occupation during the First Intifada (1987-1993).

Muhammad was among the first members of the al-Qassam Brigades when they were formed in 1991. By 2005, he was leading the Khan Younis Brigade. Recently, he became a prominent member of the al-Qassam General Staff, closely allied with its commander, Mohammed Deif, and deputy Marwan Issa, all of whom are high on Israeli assassination lists.

Target of Israeli Operations

Israel has attempted to eliminate Muhammad Sinwar multiple times through extensive military operations, including the repeated destruction of his home. Despite these efforts, he has survived six assassination attempts over the past two decades, earning a reputation as a resilient and elusive leader.

The Israeli government has placed a 300,000 shekel bounty on information leading to his capture, making him the second most wanted figure after his brother Yahya.

Muhammad's resilience was highlighted on April 11, 2003, when he survived an assassination attempt involving explosives planted in the wall of his home. He has maintained a low profile since, even missing the public funeral of his father in January 2022.

Israeli forces demolished his family home on October 24, 2004, and the last known attempt on his life occurred during the May 2021 conflict, known as the Sword of Jerusalem.

Prison Experience and Military Strategy

Muhammad has a history of imprisonment during the First Intifada and was detained by the Palestinian National Authority in the 1990s as part of a crackdown on Hamas leaders. He played a crucial role in reorganizing the al-Qassam Brigades following the outbreak of the Second Intifada.

He has focused on enhancing Hamas' military capabilities and understanding the operational strategies of Israeli forces. The Israeli media describes him as the "mysterious man" within Hamas, noting his strategic acumen and his role in the ongoing "battle of minds" against Israel.

Israel accuses him of orchestrating numerous attacks, including "booby-trapped tunnel operations" targeting military sites over five years following the Second Intifada. He is also credited with planning the operation "Waning Illusion," which aimed at an Israeli military site near the Kerem Shalom crossing on June 25, 2006, leading to the capture of soldier Gilad Shalit, who was held for several years before being released in a prisoner swap on October 18, 2011.

Muhammad believes that the key to freeing thousands of Palestinian prisoners lies in future exchange deals. Given his extensive experience and ability to operate under intense Israeli surveillance, many consider him a strong candidate to lead Hamas following Yahya Sinwar's death, making him a primary target for Israeli forces.