On Tuesday, Hamas announced Yahya Sinwar as its new leader in Gaza, succeeding Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in what is believed to be an Israeli strike in Iran. Sinwar, a key architect of the October 7 attacks in Israel, represents the hardline faction within Hamas, signaling a commitment to continued conflict after a prolonged Israeli campaign in Gaza.
Sinwar’s appointment is likely to intensify tensions with Israel, which has identified him as a top target following the October 7 attacks that resulted in 1,200 deaths in southern Israel and approximately 250 hostages taken. The timing of this announcement is particularly volatile, with fears of broader regional conflict. Iran has vowed retaliation for Haniyeh’s death, and Hezbollah has threatened revenge for the recent Israeli airstrike in Beirut that killed one of its senior commanders. Ongoing efforts by American, Egyptian, and Qatari mediators to negotiate a cease-fire and hostages’ release are complicated by these developments.
In their statement, Hamas confirmed Sinwar’s new role as head of its political bureau, taking over from Haniyeh, who was killed in an explosion that both Iran and Hamas blame on Israel. Israel has not confirmed or denied its involvement. Additionally, Israel recently claimed to have confirmed the death of Hamas’ military chief, Mohammed Deif, in a July airstrike, though Hamas has not verified this.
In response to Sinwar’s appointment, Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari stated that Sinwar’s place is alongside other attackers from October 7, indicating Israel’s intent to target him. Sinwar’s elevation highlights the growing dominance of Hamas’ local leadership, particularly its armed wing, over its exiled leadership, which traditionally handled international relations and diplomacy.
Haniyeh, who had been in exile in Qatar since 2019, was actively involved in cease-fire negotiations with U.S., Qatari, and Egyptian intermediaries. However, he consulted with Sinwar on these matters. Hamas spokesman Osama Hamdan confirmed that Sinwar would continue with the cease-fire discussions, placing blame on Israel and the U.S. for the negotiation challenges.
Sinwar’s appointment was praised by Hamas allies, including Iran and Hezbollah. Khaled Kaddoumi, Hamas’ representative in Iran, described Sinwar as a unifying figure and a fierce combatant. Despite ongoing mediation efforts led by the U.S., obstacles remain, particularly regarding the terms for a hostage release and the cessation of conflict.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that Sinwar’s decision will be crucial in determining whether a cease-fire will progress. Sinwar, who has led Hamas in Gaza since 2017, is known for his tight control and military focus. His recent public appearances have been rare, and he has been in hiding since the October 7 attacks.
The conflict has caused significant casualties and destruction, with nearly 40,000 Palestinian deaths reported, widespread displacement, and extensive damage to Gaza’s infrastructure. The International Criminal Court has sought arrest warrants for Sinwar, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Israel’s defense minister on war crime charges.
Hugh Lovatt from the European Council on Foreign Relations noted that the death of Haniyeh, a moderate, has paved the way for Sinwar to consolidate power and shift Hamas towards a more hardline stance.