Hamas Leadership Moves Underground Amid Israeli Strikes

Hamas has restructured its leadership in secrecy, signaling a strategic shift to protect its remaining hierarchy from targeted assassinations.

Following Israel’s pledge to dismantle Hamas after the October 7 attacks, airstrikes and ground operations have significantly weakened the group’s command structure. Key figures, including political leader Ismail Haniyeh, military chief Mohammed Deif, and Gaza strongman Yahya Sinwar, have reportedly been killed. However, the militant organization has adapted, swiftly appointing new leaders whose identities remain undisclosed.

Unlike Hezbollah, which built its identity around public figures, Hamas is now deliberately concealing the names and roles of its upper echelon, particularly within its military wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades. A source close to the group confirmed that “the name of the new Qassam Brigades commander will remain secret” to ensure their safety and operational continuity.

Experts suggest the position may have been passed to Mohammed Sinwar, Yahya Sinwar’s younger brother, who was previously responsible for hostages taken into Gaza in 2023. His close familial and operational ties within Hamas are believed to grant him natural authority over the brigades.

Despite suffering massive losses, Hamas continues to function under a collective leadership model. According to insiders, decision-making is coordinated through the group’s political bureau, which acts on mandates from the broader Shura Council, a quasi-legislative body within the organization.

The Soufan Center, a U.S.-based security think tank, reported growing tensions between Hamas’s political leaders abroad and its military commanders in Gaza. This division reflects the movement’s historical internal frictions, previously seen during events such as the Arab Spring and disagreements over alliances, particularly with Iran.