Khalil Al-Hayya, a long-standing veteran of Hamas, has been appointed as the organization’s new leader following the deaths of key figures like Ismail Haniyeh and Yahya Sinwar. Based in Doha, Al-Hayya has emerged as the group's most influential international representative, known for maintaining strong diplomatic ties with Iran and playing a central role in complex ceasefire negotiations. His rise to the top leadership position comes after surviving assassination attempts and navigating the group through one of its most turbulent periods since its inception in 1987.

A founding member of the organization who traces his roots back to the Muslim Brotherhood, Al-Hayya has faced significant personal losses, including the deaths of his children and several family members in past conflicts with Israel. Throughout his tenure, he has balanced high-stakes political maneuvering, such as reconciling ties with Syria, with his role as a lead negotiator in indirect talks regarding the ongoing war in Gaza. As he assumes command, his primary challenge remains managing the group’s strategic direction amidst intense international pressure and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the enclave.