A senior Hamas official said military chief Izz al-Din al-Haddad died after recent Israeli airstrikes in Gaza. Israel said Haddad orchestrated the October 7 attacks, making him a top military target for Israeli forces. His reported death could deepen tensions, affecting ceasefire negotiations and civilians trapped in the devastated Gaza Strip.
Hamas has not officially confirmed Haddad’s death. However, witnesses said Gaza City mosques announced his “martyrdom” on Saturday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed Friday that Israeli forces targeted Haddad during recent strikes. They described him as a central planner of Hamas operations against Israel. Israeli officials also linked him to attacks that triggered the current Gaza war in October 2023.
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Haddad became Hamas’ military chief in Gaza after Israel killed Mohammad Sinwar in May 2025. Israeli leaders said Haddad directed kidnappings and attacks against Israeli civilians and soldiers. Meanwhile, medics in Gaza reported at least seven deaths from Friday’s airstrikes. The victims reportedly included three women and one child. Health workers also said at least 50 people suffered injuries during the attacks.
At the same time, indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas remain stalled despite international mediation efforts. The talks aim to support U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed post-war Gaza framework. However, both sides continue disagreeing on ceasefire terms and future governance plans. Israel recently intensified military operations after ending joint bombing missions with the United States against Iran. Israeli officials claim Hamas fighters are rebuilding influence inside Gaza’s damaged territory.
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The conflict has devastated Gaza and displaced large numbers of civilians since fighting erupted in October 2023. International agencies continue warning about worsening humanitarian conditions across the enclave. Furthermore, ongoing Israeli strikes and Hamas operations have complicated efforts to secure a lasting truce. Analysts believe Haddad’s reported death could reshape Hamas leadership and influence future negotiations in the region.