Israel killed the longtime masked spokesperson for Hamas’s armed wing during an expanding offensive in Gaza, deepening the military campaign’s impact.
At a Glance
- Israeli military and Defense Minister confirmed Abu Obeida, the Hamas armed wing spokesman, was killed in a Gaza City strike.
- Security cabinet met to discuss expanding offensive into densely populated Gaza areas; no cease‑fire plans were on the agenda.
- The strike occurred in Rimal, Gaza City, reportedly killing more than a dozen, including children.
- The action is part of Israel’s broader campaign since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, which sparked the ongoing war.
Strike on Gaza City Targets Hamas Figurehead
On August 31, 2025, Israeli forces announced the killing of Abu Obeida—real name Hudayfa Kahlout—who had served as the masked spokesperson for Hamas’s military wing since 2007. The strike reportedly hit a residential building in the Rimal neighborhood of Gaza City, killing Obeida and at least 11 others, including multiple children, according to local health authorities.
Israeli officials characterized the operation as a high-value, intelligence-led strike. Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed the kill as part of a broader push to dismantle Hamas’s communications and command infrastructure in northern Gaza.
Watch now: Israel Confirms Hamas Spokesperson Abu Obeida Eliminated In Gaza Strike | Israel‑Hamas War · YouTube
Cabinet Pushes Ahead with Urban Offensive
Concurrently, Israel’s security cabinet convened to discuss expanding the military campaign into some of Gaza’s most densely populated zones. The meeting reportedly did not include discussions of a cease-fire, further signaling that Israeli leadership remains focused on military resolution rather than negotiations.
Military officials have declared Gaza City a “dangerous combat zone,” urging civilians to evacuate southward. However, humanitarian organizations report that many residents are unable or unwilling to flee due to ongoing bombardments and blocked routes.
Strategic Shift After October 7
The killing of Abu Obeida marks a symbolic moment in Israel’s campaign, given his prominence as the public voice of Hamas’s military wing. Obeida frequently delivered video statements following major operations or attacks and was seen as a central propaganda figure.
Israel’s war effort stems from the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on southern Israel, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths and more than 250 hostages. In response, Israel launched a full-scale ground and air campaign against Hamas in Gaza, with operations intensifying throughout 2024 and continuing into late 2025.
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