After Sinwar’s death, Hamas to keep new leader’s identity hidden to thwart future Israeli attacks

Hamas is reportedly keeping the identity of its new political bureau chief hidden following the assassination of its Gaza leader, Yehya Sinwar, by Israel on Wednesday, as per a report by the Arabic-language newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat citing sources within the group.

Just under three months ago, former political leader Ismail Haniyeh was also killed in Tehran. In light of the rising security threats, Hamas leadership is debating whether to reveal the new leader’s name.

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One source told Asharq Al-Awsat, "The leadership is likely to keep the identity confidential for safety reasons." The purpose behind this secrecy is to offer the new chief more operational flexibility and avoid further Israeli assassination attempts, which have claimed many of the group’s top figures.

Concealing the leader’s identity is also expected to help stabilise internal operations and protect the group's structure. Additionally, keeping Israel uncertain about who is in charge could be a strategic advantage if discussions about a ceasefire or prisoner exchange resume in Gaza.

Since confirming Sinwar’s death on Friday, Hamas leaders have been deliberating over who will replace him and whether their identity should remain secret. Local reports suggest that several candidates are under consideration.

One possible candidate is Mohammad Darwish, also known as Abu Omar Hassan, who leads Hamas’ Shura council. His prominence has grown since Haniyeh's death, as he has been more visible in official meetings. Another contender is Khalil Al-Hayya, Sinwar’s deputy, who has risen in importance after Sinwar's assassination. Al-Hayya currently heads Hamas in Gaza and is involved in ceasefire negotiations.

Khaled Meshaal, a former long-serving leader of Hamas’ political bureau, is also being considered. Meshaal led the bureau for 21 years and now heads the group's external branch, though reports suggest he has previously turned down major roles for health reasons.

Other names under consideration include Mohammed Nazzal, a founding member of Hamas from the West Bank, and Mousa Abu Marzouk, who co-founded Hamas and was its first political bureau chief.

Hamas began hiding its leader’s identity in 2004 after Israel assassinated its founder, Ahmed Yassin, on March 22, and then his successor, Abdel Aziz al-Rantisi, on April 17. Since its inception in 1987, Hamas has had four political bureau chiefs: Abu Marzouk (1992-1996), Meshaal (1996-2017), Haniyeh (2017 until his assassination), and Sinwar. A new leader is expected to be appointed soon.

(With inputs from agencies)