The Palestinian group has chosen al-Hayya, formerly its exiled Gaza leader, to head its political bureau following a run-off vote against former chief Khaled Meshaal.
Al-Hayya survived an Israeli assassination attempt in Qatar last year
He was part of a five-man ruling council established after Sinwar's killing in 2024
He served as Hamas' chief negotiator in ceasefire and captive exchange talks
His family has been repeatedly targeted: 7 relatives killed in 2007, his son killed in 2008, and more family members lost in the ongoing genocide
Hamas held a formal vote under war conditions, while Israel continues its assault on Gaza's leadership. Hamas's institutional structure has outlasted its leaders — and will likely outlast this war.