Media: Hamas names war-hardened commander as Gaza leader

Izz al-Din al-Haddad has emerged as the new de facto military leader of Hamas in Gaza, replacing Muhammad Sinwar after his death by Israeli forces. The shift in leadership comes at a critical time as cease-fire negotiations between Israel and Hamas intensify under US mediation.

According to senior Middle Eastern and Israeli intelligence sources, al-Haddad, a key figure in the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel, now commands the group’s military wing in Gaza. Brigadier General Effie Defrin, the Israeli military’s spokesperson, officially confirmed the appointment, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Al-Haddad, believed to be in his mid-50s and based in Gaza City, is known for his hardline stance. “He has the same red lines as the people before him,” said Michael Milshtein, a former Israeli military intelligence officer.

In a rare on-the-record interview in January, al-Haddad asserted, “The leadership of the occupation, supported by America and the West, will have to submit to our just demands.” He called for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, a cessation of the war, the release of Palestinian prisoners, Gaza’s reconstruction, and the lifting of entry and exit restrictions.

Despite mounting international pressure for a cease-fire, Hamas has insisted on a permanent end to the conflict before releasing remaining hostages. Israel, meanwhile, demands the complete dismantling of Hamas’s military and political structures. Al-Haddad has reportedly told associates that he would accept only an “honorable deal” or prepare for “a war of liberation or a war of martyrdom.”

Al-Haddad is among the last surviving members of Hamas’ military council from the time of the October assault. His close ally, Raed Saad, is also believed to be alive. While he has eluded Israeli strikes, his eldest son, Suheib, was reportedly killed in the war. Israel has vowed to target him and senior Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya, citing their roles in planning the October attack.

Al-Haddad draws strategic inspiration from Chechen resistance against Russia in the 1990s, signaling his long-term vision for protracted resistance.

By Vafa Guliyeva