[63216] Hamas reacts to the elimination of Izz ad-Din al-Haddad: "We will not give up our weapons"

Hamas statements following the elimination of Izz ad-Din al-Haddad

Following the elimination of Izz ad-Din al-Haddad, commander of Hamas's military wing, sources affiliated with the organization in Gaza published messages of defiance against Israel. The messages emphasize that despite the severe blow the organization has suffered, they have no intention of abandoning their armed path.

On the Abu Ali Express channel (which takes a critical line towards Hamas and Iran), words said over al-Haddad's open grave were quoted: "Even if they crush our skulls and even if they rip out our hearts, we will not give up our weapons! This is our commitment to Izz ad-Din al-Haddad".

Similarly, the Hananel Aviv channel reported on similar messages distributed by sources in Gaza. According to Hananel Aviv, the Gazan speakers emphasized that weapons constitute a "fundamental principle" for them and that they will not abandon them under any circumstances, while using graphic descriptions of physical harm to themselves as an expression of their determination.

Both channels agree on the extreme and uncompromising nature of the message conveyed, which serves as a direct response to the elimination of the organization's senior official on May 16, 2026. The messages highlight the deep rift between the sides and the adherence of Hamas's military wing to their combat strategy despite Israel's operational achievements.