Opinion: Yahya Sinwar died fighting Israel. His death will not defeat Hamas
Although the killing of Sinwar will be seen as another major blow to Hamas, it is highly unlikely that it will affect its long-term strategy, writes Azzam Tamimi.
Israel succeeded many times before in almost decapitating the movement. Yet, it has not managed to weaken its resolve, let alone crush it.
Hamas is an institutional movement with an elected leadership. It has no personality cult, and leaders who perish are immediately and smoothly replaced.
It remains to be seen who is likely to succeed Sinwar. Perhaps this time it is more likely to be someone in the diaspora.
And it is possible that the movement will decide to live for the time being with a deputy leader until the elections are held. However, elections are unlikely to be held until the war is over.
Sinwar, like all his predecessors who were assassinated by Israel, will be celebrated by many people as a great martyr who perished fighting invaders.
From the Palestinian perspective, this would be considered the most noble and the most honourable of deaths.
The views expressed belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Eye.