The Israeli government has officially confirmed the death of Abu Obeida, the masked spokesman of Hamas’s military wing, in an airstrike carried out in Gaza City.
The announcement was made by Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, on Sunday via social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Katz said the strike was “flawless” and praised the Israeli security forces involved. He described Obeida as “a symbol of terror,” adding that he had now joined “the axis of evil” in what he referred to as “the bottom of hell.”
Prior to this confirmation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had revealed that Abu Obeida was targeted in the operation, but at the time said it was not yet clear if he had been killed.
Hamas has not issued any official reaction to the news, although in the past, it had dismissed similar reports as “psychological warfare” aimed at breaking the morale of its fighters and supporters.
Abu Obeida, whose real name is Hudayfa Kahlout, was well known as the voice and face of Hamas’s Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades. He often appeared in videos wearing a red keffiyeh and issuing warnings or statements on behalf of the group, especially after attacks or during clashes with Israel. Israeli authorities accuse him of playing a major role in spreading propaganda and coordinating media content related to Hamas operations, including footage from the deadly October 7, 2023 attack that sparked the ongoing conflict.
According to Israeli media, the airstrike that killed Obeida also destroyed a residential apartment in the Rimal area of Gaza City. At least 11 people, including children, were reportedly killed in the attack.
Obeida’s death is seen as a significant blow to Hamas’s leadership and communication structure, especially at a time when Israel is increasing its military operations in Gaza.
Since the start of the war, reports estimate that more than 63,000 Palestinians have died, with many more injured or displaced. Israeli airstrikes and ground offensives have intensified, drawing global attention and calls for a ceasefire.
The killing of such a prominent figure adds a new layer to the complex and ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, raising questions about future escalations and the chances of peace
