Hamas’s new leader must bridge a movement divided over Iran

Khalil al-Hayya has been elected the new head of Hamas by a narrow margin of 35-34 votes, following the killing of Yahya Sinwar in October 2024. This close result highlights existing divisions within the movement, particularly concerning its relationship with Iran. Al-Hayya, Sinwar's former deputy in Gaza, must now work to reconcile these competing factions while maintaining Hamas's independence. The article traces Hamas's leadership evolution from its origins in Gaza to a more complex structure involving Gaza, the West Bank, and the diaspora, noting a growing reliance on Iran since the movement's leadership was based in Damascus. This relationship was strained by the Arab Spring, but Iran has historically sought to influence Hamas.

Hamas has announced the election of Khalil al-Hayya as the new head of its political bureau. Al-Hayya previously served as Hamas' lead negotiator in indirect ceasefire talks with Israel. He succeeds Yahya al-Sinwar, who Hamas described as a "martyred leader." Sinwar was killed by Israeli forces in Gaza a year after the October 7, 2023 attacks, which Israel accused him of helping to architect. The announcement was made by Hamas on Monday.

Khalil al-Hayya has been elected as the new head of Hamas's political bureau, following a wartime election process. This appointment comes after the Israeli army killed the previous leader, Yahya Sinwar, in 2024. Al-Hayya, a veteran negotiator and former exiled Gaza leader, secured victory in a run-off vote against Khaled Meshaal. His election aligns with Hamas's internal framework to ensure representation from key geographical sectors. Al-Hayya, who has held various leadership roles within Hamas since its founding in 1987, will serve the remainder of the current electoral term ending in 2027. He has previously served as deputy leader in Gaza and headed the group's Arab and Islamic relations office, playing a significant role in diplomatic and ceasefire negotiations.

Hamas has elected Khalil al-Hayya as its new overall leader, replacing Yahya Sinwar, who was killed by Israeli forces in Gaza in October 2024. Al-Hayya, who previously headed the movement in Gaza from exile and served as chief negotiator, is seen as continuing the political line of his predecessors. He has gained international prominence through his leadership in indirect ceasefire talks with mediators. Al-Hayya, 65, survived an Israeli air strike in Doha in September 2025 that targeted a Hamas leaders' meeting, an event Israel stated was in response to the October 7, 2023 attack. He has also lost several family members in previous Israeli actions.