Story perspectives

Israel Kills ‘Ghost’ Hamas Commander, Odeh Named New Chief

5/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Israel’s precision strike in Gaza killed Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the Hamas commander known as “The Ghost,” who oversaw the group’s hostage captivity system.
Following his death, Mohammed Odeh was named Hamas’s military chief.
Odeh, who directed Hamas military intelligence during Oct 7, survived multiple Israeli attempts, including a 2025 strike that killed his son.
Sources said Odeh declined an offer to lead the al-Qassam Brigades after Yahya Sinwar’s May 2025 assassination.

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Story summary

Israel’s precision strike in Gaza killed Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the Hamas commander known as “The Ghost,” who oversaw the group’s hostage captivity system.
Following his death, Mohammed Odeh was named Hamas’s military chief.
Odeh, who directed Hamas military intelligence during Oct 7, survived multiple Israeli attempts, including a 2025 strike that killed his son.
Sources said Odeh declined an offer to lead the al-Qassam Brigades after Yahya Sinwar’s May 2025 assassination.