Disclosed is a catalyst suitable for the catalytic oxidative cracking of a H 2 S-containing gas stream, particularly in the event that the stream also contains methane and/or ammonia. The catalyst comprises iron and molybdenum supported by a carrier comprising aluminium. The carrier preferably is alumina. The iron and molybdenum preferably are in the form of sulphides. Also disclosed is a method for the production of hydrogen from a H 2 S-containing gas stream, comprising subjecting the gas stream to catalytic oxidative cracking so as to form H 2 and S 2 , using a catalyst in accordance with any one of the preceding claims.