Hamas has appointed Yayha Sinwar, a Gaza-based leader, as its new chief, replacing Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Tehran, Iran, last week. Sinwar is widely regarded as the mastermind behind the devastating October 7 terror attack that claimed the lives of 1,200 Israelis.
Sinwar’s current whereabouts are unknown, but it is believed that he is hiding in a tunnel in Gaza, possibly using Israeli hostages as human shields. His appointment as Hamas leader comes despite his notorious past, which includes serving a prison sentence in Israel for terror-related activities. During his incarceration, Sinwar was treated for brain cancer by Israeli doctors, a fact that has been seen as a bitter irony given his subsequent return to violence.
Sinwar’s leadership has been met with skepticism by some in Gaza, who feel that his actions have brought unnecessary suffering to the region. While he has the support of the “Shura Council,” there are concerns that his appointment may exacerbate the conflict with Israel.
One potential advantage of Sinwar’s leadership is that he is based in Gaza, unlike many other Hamas leaders who have fled to luxury exile in countries such as Qatar and Turkey. However, this also presents risks for the terror group, as Sinwar’s location makes him vulnerable to Israeli military action. If he is killed or captured, Hamas will be left without a leader, potentially plunging the organization into chaos.
