Hamas’s new leader must bridge a movement divided over Iran
Summary
Khalil al-Hayya was narrowly elected as the new leader of Hamas after nearly two years of shared leadership. His election highlights divisions within Hamas, especially about its relationship with Iran and the balance of power among its Gaza, West Bank, and diaspora branches.Key Facts
- Hamas was founded in 1987 as part of the Muslim Brotherhood network in Gaza and surrounding regions.
- Its original leadership was based in Gaza but shifted toward the diaspora due to Israeli crackdowns.
- Khalil al-Hayya won the Hamas leadership vote by just one vote, 35 to 34.
- The election reflects ongoing tensions between factions aligned differently, with some closer to Iran.
- Hamas leadership is organized into three main groups: Gaza, West Bank, and the diaspora, each with its own council.
- This structure has led to internal conflicts and overlapping responsibilities.
- Hamas’s leadership was based in Damascus for 11 years, during which its international ties, including with Iran and allies like Hezbollah, grew stronger.
- The current situation tests whether Hamas can reunite its different factions under al-Hayya’s leadership.
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