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Hamas Leadership Elections: Hardliners vs. Peacemakers

2/20/2026

35 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Hamas is conducting leadership elections as it weighs its future and possible peace in Gaza.
Members in Gaza have voted, with participants in the West Bank and diaspora expected to join.
The frontrunners are Khalil al-Hayya, a hardliner tied to Iran, and Khaled Meshaal, who favors a settlement with Israel.
Elections are held in secrecy due to assassination risks.
Hamas is rebuilding its organization, collecting taxes, and replacing officials.

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Story summary

Hamas is conducting leadership elections as it weighs its future and possible peace in Gaza.
Members in Gaza have voted, with participants in the West Bank and diaspora expected to join.
The frontrunners are Khalil al-Hayya, a hardliner tied to Iran, and Khaled Meshaal, who favors a settlement with Israel.
Elections are held in secrecy due to assassination risks.
Hamas is rebuilding its organization, collecting taxes, and replacing officials.