Israel kills spokesman for Hamas’ armed Qassam Brigades

The Israeli military announced on Sunday that it had killed the long-time spokesman for Hamas’ armed wing, as the country’s security cabinet met to discuss the expanding offensive in some of Gaza’s most populated areas.

There were no plans to discuss negotiations for a ceasefire at the meeting, according to an official who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak with the media.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz identified the spokesman as Abu Obeida, the nom de guerre for the official who represented Hamas’ Qassam Brigades.

He was killed over the weekend. Hamas has not commented on the claim.

Obeida’s last statement was issued on Friday as Israel began the initial stages of the new offensive and declared Gaza City a combat zone.

His statement said the militants would do their best to protect living hostages but warned that they would be in areas of fighting.