Hamas has elected Khalil al-Hayya as its new leader following a closely contested internal run-off against senior Hamas official Khaled Meshaal.
The decision came after the group's internal leadership elections, with al-Hayya securing enough support to succeed the previous leader. Hamas officials described the process as part of the movement's internal consultative system.
Al-Hayya, a longtime member of Hamas's political leadership, is expected to play a central role in shaping the group's political and military strategy at a time of heightened regional tensions and ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Khaled Meshaal, who previously served as Hamas's political bureau chief, was considered one of the leading contenders but was defeated in the final round of voting.
The leadership transition comes as Hamas continues to face significant political, military, and humanitarian challenges, with observers closely watching how the new leadership may influence the group's future policies and regional relations.