Hamas announces deaths of key military leaders, including Abu Obaida, in Gaza war

• Hamas announces the deaths of five senior Al-Qassam Brigades commanders during the Al-Aqsa Flood battle.
• The announcement comes amid the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip and renewed debate over accountability and military escalation.

Hamas said on Monday that five senior commanders from its armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, were killed during the 'Israeli' war in Gaza, describing them as "central figures" within the movement’s military leadership.

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In a statement, Hamas said the commanders died after years of military planning and organization, and played key roles in developing the group’s operational and combat capabilities.

Commanders Named

According to the statement, the commanders are:

• Mohammed Sinwar, identified as chief of staff and successor to Mohammed Deif.
• Mohammed Shabana, commander of the Rafah Brigade.
• Hakam al-Issa, head of weapons and combat support.
• Raed Saad, head of military manufacturing.
• Huthaifa al-Kahlout, known as Abu Obaida, who previously served as military spokesperson for the Qassam Brigades.

Hamas said the five commanders were involved in multiple phases of its confrontation with 'Israel', describing the October 7 events as the final stage of their military roles.

Hamas Position

Hamas said the deaths of its commanders would not weaken the resistance or alter its political and military objectives. The movement reiterated its stated goal of ending the occupation and establishing an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.

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The statement described the commanders as "influential figures" in shaping the organization’s military doctrine, saying their deaths would not deter what it called the continuation of resistance against 'Israel'.

Wider Implications

The war has drawn sustained international scrutiny, with growing calls for accountability over alleged violations of international law and mounting pressure to halt the fighting and address the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

Hamas concluded by saying the commanders had joined the ranks of martyrs among Palestinian leaders and figures killed during the war, framing their deaths as part of a broader struggle that remains ongoing.