Hamas Military Intelligence Chief Muhammad Odeh Killed in Israeli Strike After Leading October 7 Attack Planning
Muhammad Odeh, known as Hamas' chief military intelligence architect and a key planner behind the October 7 attacks on Israel, was killed in an Israeli targeted strike after months of surveillance by Shin Bet and the IDF. Odeh, a veteran operative from Gaza's Jabalia refugee camp, rose through Hamas ranks since the late 1980s, becoming head of military intelligence and a senior member of Hamas' military council. He was closely connected to the Sinwar family, influential in Hamas leadership, and played a central role in intelligence gathering, rocket production, and operational planning.
Odeh initially avoided taking command of Hamas' military wing after the killing of Muhammad Sinwar, fearing Israeli targeting, but eventually accepted the role under pressure from Hamas leaders in Qatar. Ten days later, he was eliminated. Israeli military sources described Odeh as a highly significant figure responsible for detailed intelligence collection on IDF vulnerabilities and operational planning for the October 7 offensive. His death dealt a severe blow to Hamas' intelligence capabilities.
Odeh pioneered a sophisticated intelligence network, including observation posts near the Israeli border, equipped with night vision and cameras, to monitor IDF movements and prepare for attacks. His efforts exposed gaps in Israeli defenses and helped orchestrate the large-scale October 7 assault. Despite repeated Israeli attempts to locate him during the conflict, Odeh evaded capture until a breakthrough intelligence tip led to his killing alongside close aides.
Israeli officials noted that Hamas continues to rebuild its military leadership with experienced commanders and is recruiting youth for future operations, preparing for a long-term strategy. The IDF emphasized ongoing efforts to weaken Hamas through targeted strikes and infrastructure damage, aiming to disrupt its command structure and operational capabilities. Odeh's death marks a significant milestone in Israel's campaign against Hamas' military leadership.
