Who Is Izz al-Din al-Haddad? The elusive ‘Ghost of al-Qassam’ now leading Hamas’ military wing in Gaza

In the wake of the deaths of Yahya Sinwar and Mohammed Sinwar, Hamas has witnessed a significant shift in its military leadership. Emerging from the shadows is Izz al-Din al-Haddad, also known by his nom de guerre Abu Suhaib and dubbed "the Ghost of the al-Qassam Brigades." A veteran commander with decades of experience, al-Haddad now stands at the helm of Hamas's military operations in Gaza, overseeing critical decisions related to hostages, warfare, and ceasefire negotiations.

Al-Haddad's rise through the ranks

Al-Haddad's journey within Hamas began in 1987, and over the years, he has ascended through the ranks of the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas's military wing. His roles have included company commander, battalion leader, and eventually, commander of the Gaza Brigade. Following the assassination of his predecessor, Bassem Issa, in 2021, al-Haddad took charge of the Gaza Brigade, solidifying his position within the organization's military hierarchy.

Known for his elusive nature, al-Haddad has survived multiple Israeli assassination attempts, including airstrikes targeting his residence in 2008, 2012, 2021, and 2023. His ability to evade capture and death has only enhanced his reputation within Hamas, earning him the moniker "the Ghost of al-Qassam."

Strategist of October 7 attacks

Al-Haddad played a pivotal role in orchestrating the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel. On the eve of the assault, he convened a secret meeting with his battalion commanders, distributing printed orders bearing the logo of Hamas's military wing. These directives laid out the plan for the surprise attack, which included the deadly assault on the Nahal Oz military base.

His involvement in the planning and execution of these attacks underscores his strategic acumen and his central role in Hamas's military operations. Al-Haddad's actions during this period have solidified his position as a key figure within the organization's military leadership.

Survival amidst leadership decimation

The deaths of key Hamas leaders, including Yahya Sinwar in October 2024 and Mohammed Sinwar last month, have left a leadership vacuum within the organization. Al-Haddad's survival amidst these losses has positioned him as the de facto military leader in Gaza. His resilience and experience have made him a central figure in Hamas's ongoing operations and strategic planning.

Al-Haddad's cautious and calculated approach to leadership has been evident in his handling of ceasefire negotiations. Despite international efforts to broker a truce, he has maintained a hardline stance, reportedly holding veto power over proposed deals. His insistence on specific timelines for hostage releases has been a sticking point in negotiations, reflecting his influence and the challenges facing diplomatic efforts.

The brief consideration of Muhammad Shabana

Before al-Haddad's ascension, Muhammad Shabana, commander of Hamas's Rafah Brigade, was considered a potential successor to the Sinwar brothers. Shabana, who led approximately four battalions, had a reputation for strategic leadership and had survived multiple Israeli assassination attempts.

However, on May 13, 2025, an Israeli airstrike targeting a bunker beneath the European Hospital in Khan Yunis resulted in the deaths of both Mohammed Sinwar and Shabana. This development eliminated a key contender for leadership, further consolidating al-Haddad's position within Hamas's military hierarchy.