The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has released controversial footage showing Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and his wife, Abu Zamar, entering a tunnel system shortly before the October 7 massacre in Israel. The video, which has sparked outrage, appears to show Sinwar’s wife carrying what the IDF claims is a £25,000 Hermès Birkin handbag, highlighting the stark contrast between the lifestyle of Hamas leadership and the struggles of ordinary Gaza residents.
In the three-minute video, Sinwar is seen moving supplies into an underground lair, including water bottles and pillows. The footage shows him helping his two young sons through the narrow concrete tunnel, followed by his wife, who is smiling and clutching the luxury bag. This occurred just a day before the deadly attack on Israeli communities.
IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari commented on the video, stating, “Hours before the massacre, Sinwar cared only about himself and his family while he sent terrorists for the murderous attack on Israeli children, women and men. This was a luxury that the people of Gaza did not have as Sinwar always prioritised himself, his money and Hamas terrorists over the people of Gaza.”
The IDF also released images of Sinwar’s underground bunker, revealing a well-stocked hideout with modern amenities, including toilets, shower suites, and a large TV. The bunker reportedly contained UNRWA food parcels intended for civilian families, as well as a safe filled with millions in Israeli shekels and US dollars.
This revelation comes shortly after Sinwar’s reported death in Rafah last week, which the IDF claims was due to a long-range gunshot wound to the head. The military initially did not realize they had killed Sinwar until after the operation, confirming his identity through DNA and dental tests.
The release of this footage and information appears to be part of Israel’s ongoing efforts to discredit Hamas leadership and justify its military operations in Gaza. It has reignited debates about the disparity between the lives of Hamas leaders and the civilian population they claim to represent, as well as the ethical implications of such luxury amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
As the conflict continues to unfold, this incident adds another layer to the complex narrative surrounding the Israel-Hamas war and its impact on civilians in both Israel and Gaza.
