FM Fidan addresses Hamas leader Sinwar’s death, stresses need for confirmation

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, has addressed the swirling rumors regarding the death of Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas’s Political Bureau, during a live broadcast.

Fidan, speaking on the evolving situation, emphasized Türkiye’s longstanding warnings about the growing risks of escalation in the region since the outbreak of violence on Oct. 7, 2023. He reiterated that these developments are now manifesting as major geopolitical challenges, urging for careful management of information and diplomacy.

In response to questions regarding the unconfirmed reports of Sinwar’s possible death, Fidan offered a measured stance. “There has been no confirmation from Hamas regarding Sinwar’s death, and we are waiting for an official response. Until the organization itself confirms this, we cannot consider it as verified information,” he stated, adding, “However, it’s worth noting that there has been no denial from Hamas as of now.”

Fidan’s comments reflect Türkiye’s cautious approach to the volatile situation in Gaza and surrounding areas. He stressed that without proper verification from official Hamas sources, such information must be handled with care to avoid further destabilization. “We cannot accept this as a fact without confirmation from the group itself,” he said, underscoring the need for restraint in reporting sensitive news amidst a rapidly escalating conflict.

The foreign minister also took the opportunity to remind the international community that Türkiye has consistently advocated for de-escalation on multiple platforms, warning of the dangers of an expanding war. “Since October 7, Türkiye has been urging all relevant parties to consider the broader implications of this war. What we are witnessing now is the geopolitical fallout of these developments,” Fidan remarked.