Israel Kills Hamas Spokesperson Abu Obeida Amid Gaza Offensive

The Israeli Defense Forces announced the killing of Abu Obeida, the longtime spokesperson and head of the propaganda apparatus for Hamas' military wing, the Qassam Brigades, in an airstrike on Gaza. Abu Obeida, whose real name is Hudahaifa Kahlout, was a key figure responsible for Hamas' psychological warfare and propaganda, including the release of videos showing hostages and promoting attacks against Israel. This assassination marks one of the highest-profile targeted killings of a Hamas leader since the war began in October 2023, and Israeli officials, including Defense Minister Israel Katz and Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, have vowed to continue targeting Hamas leadership both in Gaza and abroad. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the goal of the ongoing military operations, including the planned offensive to take control of Gaza City, is to liberate the territory from Hamas rather than occupy it. The killing comes amid intensified Israeli bombardments and preparations for a ground offensive in Gaza, where thousands of Palestinian civilians remain, and Hamas has not commented on Abu Obeida’s death. The Israeli security cabinet is actively discussing the expansion of the offensive, with no current plans for ceasefire negotiations.