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Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas has elected Khalil al-Hayya, its lead negotiator in indirect ceasefire talks with Israel, as the new head of its political bureau, succeeding Yahya al-Sinwar, who was killed by Israeli forces in Gaza last year.
“The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) announces the election of brother mujahid Khalil al-Hayya as head of the movement’s political bureau, succeeding the martyred leader Yahya al-Sinwar,” Hamas said in a statement issued on Monday.
The appointment places Hayya at the centre of Hamas’ political leadership at a critical time, as negotiations over a possible ceasefire and hostage deal with Israel remain unresolved.
Sinwar, who had led Hamas in Gaza, was killed by Israeli forces in October 2024. Israel had accused him of being one of the key figures behind the October 7, 2023, attacks that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza.
Following Sinwar’s death, Hamas was temporarily managed by a leadership council led by Mohammed Darwish, a long-serving senior official within the group. The election of Hayya now marks a move towards restoring a more defined leadership structure.
Hayya, born in 1960, has played a prominent role in Hamas’ political activities and has represented the group in diplomatic engagements, including negotiations mediated by Qatar and Egypt. His position as a key figure in ceasefire discussions has made him one of the group’s most visible representatives internationally.
He survived an Israeli strike targeting Hamas officials in Doha last year, although one of his sons was killed in the attack.
His elevation comes as Hamas faces continued military pressure in Gaza, internal leadership changes following the deaths of senior figures, and international efforts to secure an agreement to end the conflict.
