Hamas Faces Internal Opposition to Gaza Leadership Amid Election Uncertainty

Ali al-Amodi, who was provisionally elected Hamas leader in Gaza about two months ago, is now facing internal opposition that could jeopardize his leadership. Sources in Gaza told i24news that the initial election was canceled due to pressure from external Hamas leadership figures after Khalil al-Hayya was elected overall head of the movement. This forced al-Hayya to call for new elections, which are currently underway in Gaza under strict security measures.

While al-Amodi is still expected to win the current elections, some Hamas sources are expressing doubts and speaking of a fierce contest involving candidates both inside and outside the Gaza Strip. Disagreements also exist regarding the management of regional administrative bodies. The opposition stems from concerns that al-Amodi's leadership style mirrors that of Yahya Sinwar, characterized by unilateral decision-making, a trait he has adopted since taking temporary charge.

Sources indicate that former prisoners released in the Gilad Shalit deal now hold significant influence within Hamas, raising fears of a repeat of Sinwar's era of centralized decision-making. There are concerns that al-Amodi's re-election, in some form, would maintain the influence of those who followed Sinwar's approach, especially after Khaled Meshaal was sidelined in his bid to regain leadership of the political bureau.

Meshaal had hoped to lead Hamas again following the significant challenges the group has faced since the October 7th attacks and the subsequent war. However, his competition with al-Hayya concluded with al-Hayya securing the top position. The ongoing war has also diminished the presence of many Hamas leaders, either through assassinations or severe health issues affecting historical figures like Mahmoud al-Zahar, whose continued good health might have influenced the leadership outcome.