In an official statement released on Monday, Hamas said the commanders were killed after “a long journey of resistance, planning, preparation, and building strength,” dedicated to defending Palestinian land, holy sites, and national rights, with particular emphasis on Jerusalem and the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Hamas identified the fallen commanders as Mohamed as-Sinwar, chief of staff of the al-Qassam Brigades and successor to longtime leader Mohamed al-Deif; Mohamed Shabana, commander of the Rafah Brigade; Hakam al-Issa, who was responsible for combat weapons and services; Raed Saad, head of military manufacturing; and Hudaifa al-Kahlout, widely known as Abu Obeida, spokesman for the al-Qassam Brigades and head of its military media.

The movement praised the commanders for their pivotal roles in shaping the resistance over more than three decades, stating that their legacy has left a lasting imprint since Hamas was founded in Gaza as a resistance movement.

“Each of the martyred commanders represented a complete school of leadership and military preparation,” the statement said. “They were models of iron will and steadfastness, and exemplars of loyalty, sacrifice, and devotion.”

Hamas stressed that Israel’s continued targeting of Palestinian leaders, commanders, and national figures would not break the will of the Palestinian people nor deter the resistance from its path. The movement reaffirmed its commitment to continue what it described as the struggle for liberation, dignity, and the defense of Palestinian rights.

The announcement comes amid ongoing Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip, where resistance factions say they remain steadfast despite heavy losses, insisting that the sacrifices of their leaders and fighters will only strengthen their resolve. (ILKHA)