Global leaders are calling on Hamas to release Israeli hostages following the death of Yahya Sinwar, the leader of the group. Sinwar was considered the mastermind behind the October 2023 attacks on Israel. The Israeli military confirmed that Sinwar was killed in southern Gaza after a year-long pursuit. There are still 97 hostages remaining in Gaza, according to Israeli officials. US President Joe Biden sees Sinwar's death as an opportunity for a Gaza ceasefire and a political settlement for Israelis and Palestinians. German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock and French President Emmanuel Macron also called for the release of all hostages held by Hamas.