Hamas Appoints New Leader Following Israeli Strikes

Hamas has named Ezzedin Al-Haddad, a long-time member known as the “Ghost of Alcasam,” as its new leader in Gaza. This change comes after both of his predecessors were eliminated by Israeli forces.

Al-Haddad played a role in orchestrating the attack on October 7, 2023, and has recently taken charge of Hamas’ operations in Gaza, according to reports from various sources, including one from the Wall Street Journal.

This marks the third leadership change in just seven months for Hamas, as Al-Haddad replaces the mastermind behind the October assault and his brother, Mohammed Sinwar, who had assumed leadership just last month before his own death.

Before his new role, the 55-year-old Al-Haddad supervised recruitment efforts related to Israeli hostages and Hamas’ fighter jets. The nickname “ghost” reflects his low profile within the extremist faction, which could be a strategic advantage.

Sources indicate he has survived several Israeli assassination attempts during the ongoing conflict. His appointment comes shortly after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the death of Mohammed Sinwar in an airstrike.

Israeli forces revealed that Sinwar’s body was discovered earlier this week in an underground tunnel beneath a hospital in southern Gaza. The IDF remarked, “Mohammad Sinwar was responsible for the deaths of countless civilians,” stating he “died the way he lived—underground.”

Mohammed Sinwar had led the group since the killing of his brother, who was implicated in the events of October 7. Al-Haddad, who has a bounty of $750,000 on his head, is reportedly now a primary target for Israeli defense forces, according to Defense Minister Israel Katz.