Hamas armed wing confirms martyrdom of its spokesman

Hamas’ armed wing on Monday confirmed the martyrdom of its spokesman and other senior commanders and announced the appointment of a new spokesman, according to a statement.

The Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades said it had confirmed the killing of its spokesman, known by the nom de guerre Abu Obeida, and said a replacement would continue to use the same media name.

The statement confirmed the deaths of Mohammed Sinwar, also known as Abu Ibrahim, described as the head of the Qassam Brigades’ general staff; Mohammed Shabana, known as Abu Anas, commander of the Rafah brigade; and Hakam al-Issa, a veteran commander who had previously operated in Lebanon and Syria before being based in Gaza.

The group also confirmed the killing of Raed Saad, known as Abu Muath, head of its industrial unit and a former operations commander.

The Qassam Brigades said the killings would not weaken its organizational structure or resolve, adding that the path of resistance would continue.

It said Abu Obeida’s real name was Hudhayfa Samir Abdullah al-Kahlout and described him as a key figure in communicating the group’s positions.

In his first remarks, the newly appointed spokesman said the Oct. 7 Operation was “a loud explosion against oppression, pressure, and siege,” and criticized calls for the disarmament of Palestinian factions.