Overview
- The Qassam Brigades identified Abu Obeida as Hudhayfa Samir Abdullah al‑Kahlout and, for the first time, released an unmasked photograph of the slain spokesman.
- Hamas also confirmed the deaths of senior commanders Mohammed Sinwar, Mohammed Shabana, Hakam al‑Issa and Raed Saad, aligning with earlier Israeli announcements.
- A new masked spokesman said he will inherit the 'Abu Obeida' title and declared that Hamas will not disarm under current conditions.
- Israel had said it killed Abu Obeida in an Aug. 30–31 strike in Gaza City’s Al Rimal neighborhood, reported Sinwar’s death in May near Khan Younis and announced Saad’s killing on Dec. 13.
- The confirmations were issued in a video released Dec. 29 as President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu discussed the next phase of the U.S.–brokered Gaza ceasefire.