Hamas appoints Izz al-Din al-Haddad as new Gaza leader
- The Hamas leadership underwent a significant change after the assassination of Mohammed Sinwar during an Israeli airstrike.
- Izz al-Din al-Haddad was appointed as the new commander, gaining veto power over ceasefire agreements.
- The leadership change is expected to impact Hamas's future operations and its relations with Israel.
In recent weeks, Izz al-Din al-Haddad has been named as the new leader of Hamas forces in Gaza following a series of high-profile assassinations within the group. This change in leadership comes after the death of Mohammed Sinwar, who was killed by an Israeli airstrike on May 13, 2025. Sinwar's predecessor, Yahya Sinwar, was also assassinated earlier, marking a significant loss for Hamas. Izz al-Din al-Haddad, a long-serving operator within Hamas, has been a member of the senior leadership since 2022 and played a central role in orchestrating attacks against Israel, including the October 7, 2023 invasion. His appointment consolidates his power as he now possesses veto authority over any potential ceasefire agreements with Israel, complicating efforts for peace. The Israeli Defense Minister has warned that al-Haddad is in the line of fire, indicating the heightened tension surrounding this leadership change, and the consequences it may have for future relations with Israel. Hamas has openly dismissed proposed ceasefire terms from U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and appears determined to continue its operations despite significant losses and international pressure.