Hamas has appointed Yahya Sinwar, one of the masterminds behind the group’s October 7 attack on Israel, as its new leader, replacing the late Ismail Haniyeh. This move signifies a defiant stance from Hamas, placing a figure widely believed to be directing the war effort from underground tunnels at the helm. Sinwar’s appointment comes as the Gaza war continues, with Khalil al-Hayya set to continue leading indirect negotiations with Israel for a ceasefire under the guidance of the new leader.
Al-Hayya, who previously served as head of the Hamas delegation in mediated talks with Israel, will continue to spearhead efforts to secure a ceasefire and an exchange deal for Israelis abducted during the October attack. Sources close to Hamas confirm that Al-Hayya will remain the diplomatic face of the movement, entrusted with leading negotiations.
Despite Sinwar’s absence from public view since the October 7 attacks, his role in directing military operations and prisoner-hostage swap negotiations has been prominent. Communications between Sinwar in the Gaza Strip and Hamas leaders abroad are ongoing, though they may experience delays in delivery.
Hamas officials have stressed the significance of Sinwar’s leadership, highlighting the importance of the Gaza Strip for the group and interpreting his appointment as a response to the assassination of Haniyeh. The appointment of Sinwar, who Israel has vowed to kill, signals a commitment to a militant approach to the conflict.
Following the October 7 attacks, Hamas-led militants inflicted significant casualties on Israel, killing over 1,200 people and abducting 250 others. Israel’s subsequent offensive has resulted in the deaths of around 40,000 people in Gaza, according to the Gaza health ministry.
