Hamas has reached a critical juncture in its leadership succession process, with two prominent figures competing for the helm of one of the most powerful and influential Palestinian movements. The senior Hamas official confirmed to AFP on Sunday that the organization is now focusing on final selections within the political bureau after concluding internal elections across Gaza, West Bank, and external branches.
The Shura Council, a crucial consultative body comprised predominantly of religious scholars, has been formed recently alongside the new political bureau. Members are elected every four years by representatives from Hamas’s three main regions: Gaza Strip, occupied West Bank, and external leadership. Additionally, prisoners in Israeli jails who identify with Hamas also have voting rights.
Hamas’s internal elections spanned multiple areas, including the formation of a Shura Council composed of religious scholars. The newly formed political bureau then selects the movement’s leader. Recent developments indicate that Khaled Meshaal and Khalil al-Hayya are vying for this leadership position.
Al-Hayya, aged 65 and a native of Gaza, is known for his role as Hamas’s chief negotiator in ceasefire talks. He has held senior positions since at least 2006 according to the US-based NGO Counter Extremism Project (CEP). On the other hand, Meshaal, born in the West Bank in 1956, did not reside in Gaza during his tenure. Since 2004, he has been leading Hamas’s political bureau until 2017.
Meshaal’s influence extends beyond politics; CEP notes his role was instrumental in transforming Hamas into a hybrid entity combining political and military capacities. Currently, Meshaal serves as the movement’s office head for its diaspora community.
In contrast, Hayya, who is now 65 years old and has been with Hamas since at least 2006 (as per CEP), enjoys support from Hamas’s armed wing, Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades. Last month, when former leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Tehran, the group chose Yahya Sinwar as his successor.
This new phase of leadership succession underscores the importance of maintaining unity and strategic continuity within Hamas amid evolving regional dynamics. As the movement continues to navigate challenges, it must choose wisely between these two experienced leaders who bring distinct sets of skills and visions to their role.