The ‘Ezzedine Al-Qassam’ Brigades announced his death through a video message on Telegram. The group described Abu Obeida as a respected and symbolic figure, calling him a “martyred commander” loved by many.

Israel had earlier said Abu Obeida was killed in an air strike on Gaza on August 30. Hamas did not confirm his death at that time, keeping his fate unclear for months.

During the war, Abu Obeida became one of the most closely followed voices in Gaza. His statements were widely watched across the Arab world and beyond, especially during talks related to prisoner exchanges.

Abu Obeida’s real name was Hudhayfa Samir al-Kahlout. He was born on February 11, 1985, and grew up in the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza. He joined Hamas at a young age and later became part of its armed wing.

Breaking | Al-Qassam Brigades release an image of senior commander Hudhaifa al-Kahlout, known as “Abu Obeida,” head of the Military Media Department and military spokesperson of the al-Qassam Brigades. pic.twitter.com/WYvsDbNSxw

— Quds News Network (@QudsNen) December 29, 2025

He was known for appearing in videos wearing military clothing, with his face hidden by a red keffiyeh. His identity was kept secret for years, known only to a small group within Hamas. Israel had reportedly attempted to assassinate him several times.

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Hamas officials said Abu Obeida represented what they call “resistance” and was known for strong speeches that included threats and announcements of military actions.

In the same video, a masked man dressed in Abu Obeida’s style said he would use the same name for future statements. He also confirmed the deaths of four other Hamas commanders in Israeli strikes.

Israel says it has targeted Hamas’s leadership to destroy the group following the October 7, 2023, attack, which sparked the ongoing war in Gaza.