Hamas's succession war: the battle for control of Gaza reopens

The terrorist organization Hamas is expected to hold a second round of elections for the head of its political bureau in the Gaza Strip this week, after the first round ended without a decision. Nizar Awadallah is backed by Khaled Mashal and Zaher Jabarin, while Khalil al-Hayya supports Ali al-Ammoudi. The background: a reorganization at the top of the organization and shifts in the balance of power.

The terrorist organization Hamas is expected to hold a second round of elections for the head of its political bureau in the Gaza Strip this week, after the first round held several weeks ago ended without a decision. Two members of the political bureau, Nizar Awadallah and Ali al-Ammoudi, are competing for the position. In the first round, neither managed to secure the required majority, partly because some eligible voters cast blank ballots. Behind the contest, a struggle is unfolding among senior Hamas figures. Khaled Mashal has recently been working with members of the organization's Shura Council to rally support for Awadallah. Zaher Jabarin, who is responsible for the Hamas file on Judea and Samaria, also supports him. In contrast, al-Ammoudi enjoys the backing of the head of Hamas's political bureau, Khalil al-Hayya. Al-Ammoudi is considered a figure who was close to the arch-murderer Yahya Sinwar. In recent weeks, there has been a shift in the positions of some eligible voters, after al-Ammoudi initially enjoyed more significant support. These changes have strengthened Awadallah's chances. The contest is part of a broader process of reorganization at the top of Hamas following the war and the targeting of several senior figures in the organization. Regional developments, including the targeting of Iran and Hezbollah, have led to a reassessment of the balance of power.