Who will replace Yahya Sinwar as Hamas’s leader?

Yahya Sinwar, the political chief of Hamas, was martyred by Israeli forces in Rafah on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.

Hamas on Friday confirmed leader Yahya Sinwar was martyred in combat with Israeli forces in Gaza.

Khalil al-Hayya, chief of Hamas’ Gaza branch, said this during a televised address.

“Sinwar martyred in combat with Israeli forces in Gaza,” he added.

“Israeli captives held in Gaza will not return until war on Gaza stops and Israeli forces withdraw from the besieged and bombarded territory, he further said.

Yahya Sinwar took over as the overall head of Hamas after Ismail Haniyeh’s assassination in Tehran on July 31, 2024.

Previously, he served as the chief of Hamas in Gaza.

Some of the other prominent Hamas leaders and commanders include:

Khaled Mashaal: Former Hamas leader who survived an Israeli assassination attempt in 1997 and now lives in Qatar.

Marwan Issa: Hamas’ deputy military leader, reportedly killed by Israel in March, although Hamas has not confirmed his death.

Mohammad Sinwar: Yahya’s brother, a veteran commander of Hamas’ armed wing, who has survived several Israeli attempts on his life.

Khalil al-Hayya: Sinwar’s deputy, who led Hamas’ team in indirect ceasefire talks with Israel.

Mahmoud al-Zahar: A surgeon by profession, known for his strict views on Israel, who survived an Israeli assassination attempt in 2003.

Mohammad Shabana: A seasoned Hamas soldier, accused by Israel of developing a network of tunnels in Gaza.

Rawhi Mushtaha: Sinwar’s close aide, who co-founded Hamas’ first security battalion in 1980.