“We will reach every terrorist – and eliminate them,” Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said as authorities took the body away for DNA testing.

A senior Israeli government official, granted anonymity to discuss the sensitive issue, said it “looks as if” Sinwar had been killed, but added that his death had “not yet been confirmed,” as well The Israel Defense Forces and the country’s intelligence services are urgently seeking corroborating evidence.

Former head of Israel’s Shin Bet security service Ya’akov Peri told POLITICO: “The service called me. They are still examining the body,” he said. He added that the big concern now is: “Where are the hostages?”

Hamas’ remaining Israeli prisoners were held near Sinwar’s hideouts to deter Israel from targeting him.

There are fears that some hostages may be involved in the attack on Sinwar or that Hamas militants will avenge his death, if confirmed, by killing prisoners.

The IDF said: “In the building where the terrorists were eliminated, there were no signs of the presence of hostages in the area. “Forces operating in the area continue to act with due caution.”

This story will be updated.