Yahya Sinwar steps in as new Hamas Leader

Yahya Sinwar has been elected as the new head of Hamas’ political bureau, the group announced. The statement read, “Our leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, has been elected as the head of the Political Bureau.”

Sinwar takes over the position from Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated at his residence in Tehran. The assassination has heightened tensions in the region. Thousands attended Haniyeh’s funeral in Tehran today, with many speculating about his successor.

Who is Yahya Sinwar?

Yahya Sinwar is one of the prominent leaders of the Hamas movement. He is the founder of Hamas’ security service, responsible for internal security matters, investigating suspected Israeli agents, and monitoring Israeli intelligence operatives.

Sinvar has been imprisoned three times but was released following negotiations between Hamas and Israel. A hardliner, Sinvar has served as the political leader in the Gaza Strip since 2017, having taken over the role from Haniyeh.