A displaced Palestinian has reported that the house where former Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar was killed was his home for 15 years before he had to flee in May due to escalating conflict.
Ashraf Abo Taha expressed shock as he recognized his partially destroyed home in Israeli drone footage, located on Ibn Sena street in Rafah, southern Gaza.
Sinwar, a pivotal figure in the 7 October attacks against Israel, was eliminated by Israeli troops on Wednesday.
Israeli military officials released drone footage purportedly showing Sinwar inside the damaged home prior to his death.
Abo Taha stated that he left his Rafah home for Khan Younis on May 6, when mandated evacuations began amid Israel’s military operation against Hamas. He had been unaware of the status of his home until now.
His daughter first showed him the footage which she claimed depicted their house, leading to disbelief until a family member confirmed it.
“I was in disbelief until I recognized, ‘yes this is my house,'” Abo Taha remarked, recalling the shock of seeing images of his destroyed home.
He expressed confusion about why Sinwar was there, insisting that neither he nor his family had any involvement with Hamas.
Verification efforts confirmed that images shared by Abo Taha corresponded with the house where Sinwar was killed.
The drone footage depicting Sinwar’s killing highlighted the challenges faced by Rafah, a region marked by significant damage.
Israel’s military actions in Rafah drew widespread international criticism and contributed to the displacement of over a million Palestinians, as reported by the UN.
Many families have been forced to relocate multiple times, seeking refuge in Rafah after fleeing from other areas in Gaza.
Abo Taha revealed he constructed his home in Rafah with family support, costing approximately 200,000 shekels (£41,400), and it was in good condition when he departed.
He fondly recalled his home’s furnishings, including unique orange sofas and dishes that held significant sentimental value.
“These items hold precious memories,” he reflected, lamenting the loss of the house he built. “Only God can compensate us,” he concluded, expressing deep sorrow for his loss.
