Hamas’ Al-Qassam Chief Declares: “Honorable Deal or Martyrdom War,” Reports NYT

The newly appointed leader of Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, reportedly communicated to his counterparts in recent weeks that his objective is to secure an “honorable deal” to put a permanent end to the hostilities in Gaza. Failing that, he indicated the conflict would escalate into “a war of liberation or a war of martyrdom.”

On Friday, The New York Times, referencing an anonymous Middle Eastern intelligence source, published a report detailing comments made by Izz al-Din Al-Haddad.

Al-Haddad assumed leadership of the military division in Gaza following the elimination of Mohammed Sinwar by Israeli forces, as confirmed by a senior Middle Eastern intelligence official and three Israeli defense officials, who requested anonymity to discuss confidential information.

A new commander, reportedly in his mid-50s, played a key role in orchestrating the Hamas-led Operation Al-Aqsa Flood on October 7, 2023, according to officials referenced by The New York Times.

According to a report by the New York Times, he is reportedly strongly opposed to Israeli initiatives aimed at removing Hamas from power. It is suggested that he may obstruct any attempts to secure the release of all remaining hostages before a complete cessation of hostilities in Gaza and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.

“In line with his predecessors, he maintains the same red lines,” stated Michael Milshtein, an expert in Palestinian affairs and former Israeli military intelligence officer.

Al-Haddad, having endured six assassination attempts, is reportedly the sole surviving member among the initial five brigade commanders in Gaza.

Al-Haddad, reportedly situated in his native Gaza City, is claimed to have stated in recent weeks a determination to secure an “honorable deal” to conclude hostilities with Israel. Alternatively, he has suggested that ongoing conflict could evolve into “a war of liberation or a war of martyrdom,” according to a Middle Eastern intelligence official.

Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas have consistently failed to achieve a ceasefire, extending the hardship for Palestinian civilians caught in the ongoing conflict in the besieged enclave.

Over the past week, the administration led by Trump has actively advocated for a halt in hostilities, contributing to the formation of a new proposal. This initiative would commence with a 60-day ceasefire, during which negotiations aimed at concluding the conflict would take place.

Hamas declared on Friday the conclusion of its internal deliberations and dialogues with Palestinian factions and forces about the most recent proposal put forward by mediators aiming to terminate the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The movement has conveyed its response to the mediators, characterizing the communication as positive, as outlined in their statement.