Hamas has reportedly named a veteran fighter and recruiter — dubbed the “Ghost of al-Qassam” — as its new leader in Gaza.

After more than 600 days of war and years of being steered by the brothers Yahya and Mohammed Sinwar, Hamas has a new leader in the Gaza Strip.

The confirmation of Mr Sinwar’s death changes little in and of itself. Hamas has already appointed a replacement and it has weathered the killings of many of its bosses. But it could shift the balance within the movement’s leadership, formerly dominated by Gazans, just as Israel once again increases pressure on the coastal strip.

As Abu Shabab and his militia continue to fend off the allegations, Basem Naim, Hamas Political Bureau member and spokesperson, asserted that the group had little influence in Gaza, marking an apparent blow to Israel's efforts to challenge Hamas' rule in the territory.

Israeli forces target Hamas weapons production facility in Gaza’s Shati area, eliminating terrorists and preventing attacks on IDF troops.

Halevi also said that IDF soldiers are too focused on political considerations to be making the correct military decisions.

The Israeli military said that the detained people were Hamas members who were planning attacks against Israel, and that they were taken to Israel for questioning.