Hamas has confirmed the death of Abu Ubaida, the long-time masked spokesman of its armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, and revealed his identity for the first time, announcing the appointment of a new spokesperson.
In a video statement released on Monday, the al-Qassam Brigades said Abu Ubaida was killed during the ongoing Gaza war. The group identified him as Hudhayfah Samir Abdullah al-Kahlout and released a photograph, ending years of secrecy surrounding his identity.
Read More: Hamas‘ tight grip on Gaza complicates plan for lasting peace
The announcement follows earlier claims by the Israeli military that Abu Ubaida had been killed, though Hamas had not previously confirmed his death. Israel had also earlier said it killed Mohammed Sinwar, the younger brother of former Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, during the conflict.
❤️🇵🇸 Hamas has uploaded an unmasked photo of the martyr Abu Obeida for the first time pic.twitter.com/uEdEVScc7J
— Jackson Hinkle 🇺🇸 (@jacksonhinklle) December 29, 2025
This is Abu Ubaida, a symbol of fear for Israel, who used to personally lead the Friday prayers in Gaza, yet no one knew. Today, Hamas has announced his martyrdom.#سلام_شہیدابوعبیدہ pic.twitter.com/Ql2vtDWtcM
— Miرza Zaفri (@MIRI31786) December 29, 2025
In the video, a newly appointed masked spokesman addressed supporters, stating that Abu Ubaida’s title would be carried forward. “We announce the martyrdom of the leader Abu Ubaida, and we have inherited his title,” he said, without revealing his own identity.
Abu Ubaida was one of the most recognisable voices of Hamas during the war in Gaza. He regularly issued statements on military operations, ceasefire violations and negotiations related to Israeli captives and Palestinian prisoners, particularly during a brief ceasefire earlier this year.
His final public message was released in early September, as Israel expanded military operations in Gaza City, declaring large areas combat zones and ordering mass evacuations. The offensive resulted in widespread destruction of residential neighbourhoods and large-scale displacement.
Read More: Israel intensifies offensive in Gaza as exodus continues
The al-Qassam Brigades also confirmed the deaths of several senior commanders, including Mohammed Shabanah, head of the Rafah Brigade, as well as Hakam al-Issa and Raed Saad.
They join a growing list of senior Hamas figures reported killed during the conflict, including political leader Yahya Sinwar, military commander Mohammed Deif and political chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Tehran.