According to a video released by Hamas on Monday, Abu Obaida was martyred during an Israeli attack on Gaza City in August. The recording, aired across Arab media outlets, paid tribute to his two-decade-long role in conveying the group’s positions and countering the adversary’s strategies.

Al-Qassam Brigades revealed the late spokesperson’s real name as Hudayfa Samir al-Kahlout, a detail that had been known to only a few before his death.

In public appearances, he always went by the pseudonym Abu Obaida and wore a red scarf to conceal his identity. He first emerged publicly in 2004 following an Israeli offensive in northern Gaza.

The new spokesman, whose identity remains undisclosed, announced that he will continue using the name “Abu Obaida” to honor his predecessor.

He expressed profound sorrow over Hudayfa Samir al Kahlout’s death, highlighting the former spokesperson’s role in bolstering the morale of believers and outmaneuvering the enemy over two decades.

The statement also confirmed the deaths of other senior leaders, including Mohammad Sanwar, the brother of former commander Yahya Sanwar.

Known for his distinctive appearance and measured briefings, Abu Obaida became a symbol of Hamas’ resilience and media presence.

He never revealed his face publicly, yet his red scarf and calm, commanding voice made him instantly recognizable. His style has been emulated during pro-Palestinian demonstrations.

Despite repeated Israeli attempts over the past twenty years to target him, Abu Obaida remained a prominent figure until April 2024, when the U.S. designated him as Hamas’ ‘Information Warfare Chief’ and added him to its sanctions list.

The introduction of a new spokesperson signals Hamas’ intent to maintain continuity in its messaging while paying homage to a figure whose influence spanned decades.