Hamas Appoints Khalil al-Hayya as New Head of Political Bureau After Sinwar's Killing

Hamas announced on July 20, 2026, that Khalil al-Hayya has been chosen as the new head of its political bureau, marking the first appointment since the assassination of Yahya Sinwar in October 2024. Al-Hayya, who served as Sinwar's deputy, was officially named his successor following a second round of voting by Hamas's Shura Council, where he secured near-unanimous support over rival Khaled Mashal, who recently returned to the organization's decision-making core.

Born in Gaza City in 1960, al-Hayya is a senior and veteran Hamas leader closely aligned with the organization's military and ideological wing. He is known for his hardline stance and strong ties to Iran, playing a key role in strengthening Hamas's relations with Tehran and the broader resistance axis. Al-Hayya has been based mainly in Qatar, where he survived an Israeli assassination attempt in Doha on September 9, 2025, which resulted in the death of his son and injury to his wife.

He has led Hamas's negotiation team in talks mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and other parties, focusing on ceasefires and prisoner exchanges with Israel. His appointment is seen as a continuation of the militant approach championed by Sinwar rather than a shift toward political moderation or ideological change within Hamas. Al-Hayya's influence on strategic decisions, particularly regarding negotiations and dealings with mediators, has been significant in recent years.

This leadership change underscores Hamas's commitment to its armed resistance strategy and close ties with Iran, signaling continuity in its political and military policies following Sinwar's death.