Defense Secretary's Statement: Hamas Spokesperson Dismissed

In a statement made on August 31, 2025, Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, confirmed the death of Hamas' military wing spokesperson, Abu Obeida. However, Hamas has not officially confirmed this claim.

The announcement followed an airstrike on August 30, 2025, in Gaza City where Abu Obeida was located. The targeted residential building in the Rimal neighborhood, once an affluent area, was hit during the attack.

Katz declared that Abu Obeida was sent "to the depths of hell" and congratulated the army and Shin Bet for the operation. He also predicted that many of Abu Obeida's accomplices in Hamas would soon be killed.

Hamas circles, on the other hand, claimed that rumours about Abu Obeida's death were part of Israel's psychological warfare. They reported that at least seven deaths occurred in the attack in the west of the city of Gaza on Saturday, but it is unclear if Abu Obeida was among the casualties.

The UN considers the figures provided by the Hamas-controlled health authority to be credible. However, these figures do not distinguish between civilians and fighters of the terrorist organizations and cannot be independently verified.

It is important to note that the Gaza war began in October 2023 as a result of an attack by Hamas and other Islamic groups on Israel. Since then, Israel has killed several senior Hamas leaders, including Jihia al-Sinwar, Ismail Haniyeh, and Mohammed Deif.

The figures provided by the Hamas-controlled health authority suggest that approximately 63,500 Palestinians have been killed and around 160,000 injured since the beginning of the Gaza war.

Abu Obeida, a high-ranking figure in Hamas, was always veiled during appearances and video messages. His death, if confirmed, would be a significant blow to Hamas' military wing.

The attack by Hamas and other Islamic groups on Israel in October 2023 marked an unprecedented massacre. The civil defense controlled by Hamas reported at least seven deaths in the attack in the west of the city of Gaza on Saturday.

As of now, no official confirmation has been given regarding the death of Abu Obeida from Hamas or the Israeli army beyond earlier statements. The situation remains uncertain, and further developments are expected.