Hamas’ armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, confirmed the death of their military spokesperson, Abu Obeida, during the Israeli offensive in Gaza. The announcement was made by a newly-appointed spokesperson who took on the same name during a press conference. Abu Obeida, also known as Hudhaifa Samir Al-Kahlout, was recognized for his role in various military events, including the capture of an Israeli soldier in 2006.
The new spokesperson, dressed in the customary uniform, revealed that Abu Obeida had stayed connected to his people even in challenging times. Alongside Abu Obeida, other senior leaders, including former Hamas military chief Mohammed Sinwar, were reported dead. Abu Obeida had been serving as the official spokesperson for the military group since 2005 and had a significant presence during Israeli military actions in Gaza.
Abu Obeida’s final public statement was made on July 18 before he was killed in an Israeli airstrike on August 30. The Israeli Defence Minister confirmed his death the following day. In a separate development, Israel received its first operational high-power laser air-defense system, Iron Beam, aimed at intercepting short-range threats like rockets and unmanned aerial vehicles. This system marks a significant advancement in Israel’s defense capabilities, according to Defence Minister Israel Katz.
