Hamas Elects Khalil al-Hayya as New Political Chief

Hamas has elected Khalil al-Hayya as its new political chief, succeeding Yahya Sinwar, who was killed by Israeli forces in Gaza in October 2024. Al-Hayya secured the position after winning a runoff vote against former political leader Khaled Meshaal within the group’s General Shura Council. The election required two rounds, as neither candidate initially achieved the majority needed under internal rules. Al-Hayya, a founding member and former deputy chairman, had previously served as the group’s chief negotiator in ceasefire talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt.