In the wake of reports that Yahya Sinwar, the leader of the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, has been killed, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to intensify military operations in both the Gaza Strip and Lebanon, effectively extinguishing hopes for a ceasefire in the region.

According to Reuters, Hezbollah, the Lebanese military-political organization, has pledged to escalate its fight against Israel. Iran, which supports Hezbollah, stated that the death of its Palestinian ally Sinwar would strengthen the “spirit of resistance.”

In a statement tonight, Netanyahu declared Sinwar’s death a significant milestone, yet he reiterated his commitment to pursue military action. Over the past few weeks, the conflict in the Middle East has escalated, transforming from Israeli operations against Hamas, which governs the Gaza Strip, into incursions into southern Lebanon and extensive bombardments across the region.

Netanyahu addressed the Israeli public, saying, “Dear compatriots, this war is not over.” He emphasized that the conflict would continue until all hostages held by Hamas are released.

He further stated, “Before us lies the opportunity to dismantle the evil axis and create a different future.” Netanyahu referred to Iran and its armed allies situated in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen.

While leaders of Western countries, including U.S. President Joe Biden, view Sinwar’s death as a potential turning point in the Middle Eastern conflict, Netanyahu’s stance clearly diverges from theirs.