Story perspectives

Political Leaders Halted Plans to Assassinate Hamas Leaders

12/10/2025

Summary

Story summary

Investigative committee led by Maj. Gen. Sami Turgeman found plans to assassinate Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Muhammad Deif were blocked by political leaders in 2022 and 2023.
The Southern Command proposed an initiative with targeted strikes and ground maneuvers, but political reluctance to escalate tensions in Gaza blocked approval.
Shin Bet officials supported the plan amid rising violence from Sinwar, while testimonies cited misconceptions that canceled potentially impactful operations.

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Story summary

Investigative committee led by Maj. Gen. Sami Turgeman found plans to assassinate Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Muhammad Deif were blocked by political leaders in 2022 and 2023.
The Southern Command proposed an initiative with targeted strikes and ground maneuvers, but political reluctance to escalate tensions in Gaza blocked approval.
Shin Bet officials supported the plan amid rising violence from Sinwar, while testimonies cited misconceptions that canceled potentially impactful operations.