Military officials in Israel say their forces have killed the head of Hamas. They have confirmed the death of Yahya Sinwar after targeting the leadership of the Islamic group throughout their yearlong campaign in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli leaders say Sinwar was the architect of the surprise attacks last October on Israel. He took over in July after former leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated during a visit to Iran.

They have said their goal during the offensive in Gaza is to "eliminate" Hamas.