Izz al-Din al-Haddad: The Rise and Death of Hamas’s “Ghost” Commander.

Israel Says Hamas Military Chief Killed

The Israeli military announced on May 16, 2026, that Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the head of Hamas’s military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, had been killed. Hamas later confirmed his death. Reports say he was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City.

Who Was Izz al-Din al-Haddad?

Izz al-Din al-Haddad was considered one of the most important commanders in Hamas’s military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades. He was widely known by the nickname “The Ghost” because of his secretive nature and years spent avoiding Israeli intelligence operations.

He was believed to have:

Directed Hamas military operations in northern Gaza
Coordinated tunnel networks and weapons deployment
Played a role, according to Israel, in planning the October 7, 2023 attacks
Influenced hostage-related operations during the war

Rise Within Hamas

Haddad became a major figure among the newer generation of Hamas commanders after the organization’s formation.

Early Background

Born and raised in Gaza
Joined Hamas at a young age
Gained prominence through armed activities against Israel
Survived several Israeli assassination attempts

Influence in the Al-Qassam Brigades

Haddad was known for maintaining extreme secrecy in Hamas military strategy. That reputation earned him the nickname “The Ghost.” He rarely appeared in public and maintained a low profile for years.

Connection to the October 7 Attacks

During the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023:

Around 1,200 people were killed
More than 250 people were taken hostage into Gaza, according to Israeli authorities

The Israeli military described Haddad as one of the “main architects” of the attack. Hamas has not publicly detailed his exact role.

After Yahya Sinwar

Following the deaths of Yahya Sinwar and later Mohammed Sinwar, Haddad was seen as gaining greater influence within Hamas’s military leadership.

After Mohammed Sinwar was reportedly killed in 2025:

Haddad rose to become head of Hamas’s military wing
He reportedly attempted to rebuild Hamas’s remaining military structure in Gaza
He became an influential figure in ceasefire-related discussions

The Strike That Killed Him

On May 15, 2026:

An Israeli airstrike hit a building in Gaza City
A vehicle was reportedly targeted afterward
Israel says Haddad was inside the vehicle
Reports also stated that his wife and daughter were killed

A public funeral was later held for him in Gaza.

Why His Death Matters

According to Israel:

Haddad was among the last major Hamas military leaders connected to the October 7 attacks
His death represents a significant blow to Hamas

However, analysts note:

Hamas has previously reorganized after losing senior leaders
It remains unclear whether his death will significantly change the course of the war
The ceasefire situation in Gaza remains fragile