Recent reports indicate that the body of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, who was killed by Israeli forces in southern Gaza, may be used as a bargaining chip in exchange for the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Sinwar's remains are currently being held in a secret location in Israel.
Israeli sources have revealed that securing the release of more than 100 hostages taken during Hamas-led attacks last year is a top priority for Israel. The authorities are considering leveraging Sinwar's remains to create pressure on Hamas to release the hostages.
An Israeli diplomatic source stated that if Hamas is willing to swap Sinwar's remains for Israeli hostages, dead or alive, Israel would be open to such an arrangement. Sinwar is viewed as a potential bargaining chip in negotiations for the hostages' release.
The Israeli source emphasized that returning Sinwar's remains to Gaza is contingent on a potential swap for hostages. Otherwise, handing over the body to Hamas is unlikely to occur.
Returning Sinwar's remains to Gaza under any circumstances could risk rallying Hamas supporters, as his burial site might become a shrine for followers, according to the diplomatic source.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog recently discussed the opportunity presented by Sinwar's killing for the return of hostages. Netanyahu urged Hamas members holding Israeli hostages to surrender and release the captives, promising a chance to live peacefully.
