Sources within Hamas in Gaza and abroad have confirmed Sinwar's ability to remain concealed thus far, indicating that he is still in communication with the movement's leadership inside and outside the region, while Israel has failed to locate him. The sources revealed to "Asharq Al-Awsat" that Sinwar is continuously aware of all developments, particularly concerning ongoing negotiations, and that he thoroughly studies every initiative presented to him, shares his opinions, and consults with movement leaders through various communication methods.
The sources explained that the Hamas leader in Gaza has contacted leaders abroad several times, especially during critical moments of recent negotiations. He also reached out to the movement's political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh after Israel targeted Haniyeh’s children, extending his condolences and offering support; however, it was unclear how this communication took place or whether it was direct.
The sources did not confirm or deny whether Sinwar had indeed survived any Israeli assassination attempts during the ongoing conflict, nor whether any Israeli forces had come close to his location, particularly during the operation in Khan Younis.
According to the sources, a "very small circle" of no more than two or three people knows his whereabouts and ensures his various needs, as well as maintaining his communication with the movement's leadership both inside and outside Gaza. They added that "Israel has failed to reach several first and second-tier leaders at both the political and military levels of Hamas; attempts were made to assassinate some, with some injured, while others came out safely from missile strikes on various locations and targets, but Sinwar was not among them."
The sources did not specify whether Sinwar is hiding above or below ground.
