Hamas Confirms Deaths of Senior Officials

On Monday, Hamas acknowledged that Israeli forces had killed five of its senior military leaders, including the group’s longtime spokesman, known as Abu Obeidah, as well as Yahya Sinwar’s brother, who was involved in the leadership during the October 7 events.

The announcement came from the organization’s new spokesperson in his inaugural address. He mentioned that he had “inherited” the name “Abu Obeidah,” which translates to “father of worshipers,” from his predecessor.

The previous spokesperson’s real identity was revealed to be Futaifa Samir Abdallah al-Qalut, who went missing on August 31, 2025, following an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) strike in Gaza City.

Although Israeli military and Shin Bet security officials confirmed the death at that time, Hamas has not, until now, admitted to this loss.

In addition to the aforementioned names, Hamas also confirmed that Mohammad Sinwar, Hakam Mohammad Issa al-Issa, Mohamed Shabana, and Ra’ad Sa’ad were killed by Israeli actions.

Mohammad Sinwar, leader of the Izzadin al-Qassam Brigade, was reported dead following an Israeli airstrike near the European Hospital in Khan Yunis back in May 2025, with the IDF announcing his demise in August 2025.

Israeli national security officials regarded Ra’ad Sa’ad as the second-highest military figure before he was targeted and killed in a recent attack. Reports suggest he had been operating from underground tunnels for months and was struck just after leaving one of them in a vehicle.

Issa, another high-ranking official in Hamas’ military branch, was killed in June 2025 during an Israeli assault on Gaza City. He played a significant role in directing the combat support operations for the Al-Qassam Brigades, having been one of its founders.

The new spokesperson characterized the October 7 massacre as “a remarkable explosion in the face of injustice, oppression, siege and all forms of aggression against al-Aqsa and our people.” He asserted the organization would persist in its armed resistance against Israel, emphasizing, “Our people will protect themselves and will not lay down their arms as long as the occupation continues, and will not surrender even if we fight with nails.”

This development comes amid reports of impending Hamas leadership elections, with Khalil Al Haya and Khalid Machar reportedly being the leading candidates for the upcoming position.