Hamas names Oct. 7 attack mastermind as new leader


Full story

Yahya Sinwar has been appointed the new leader of Hamas, taking over after the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh in Iran. Known for his significant role in Hamas’ military strategies, Sinwar’s leadership is expected to continue the group’s aggressive posture against Israel.

Sinwar, who has had close ties with Iran, steps into the role at a time of heightened tensions. The region faces increased instability, with potential repercussions from Iran and Lebanon’s Hezbollah after recent escalations, including targeted killings by Israel.

Internationally, the appointment has been met with concern, as it likely signals a continuation of aggressive policies by Hamas. Israeli officials have expressed heightened security measures in response to Sinwar’s history of involvement in attacks against Israel, particularly the Oct. 7 incident, which resulted in substantial Israeli casualties.

QR code for SAN app download

Download the SAN app today to stay up-to-date with Unbiased. Straight Facts™.

Point phone camera here

Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari told Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya televsion, “There is only one place for Yahya Sinwar, and it is beside Mohammed Deif and the rest of the Oct. 7 terrorists. That is the only place we’re preparing and intending for him.”

Efforts to broker peace and negotiate hostage releases in the region face new challenges with Sinwar’s leadership, with mediators from the U.S., Egypt and Qatar attempting to navigate an increasingly complex conflict landscape. The humanitarian impact on Gaza’s civilian population remains severe, with ongoing military actions leading to significant destruction and displacement.

Sinwar’s rise to power is viewed as indicative of a shift towards more hardline policies within Hamas, influencing future diplomatic and military interactions in the region.

Brock Koller (Senior Producer), Shea Taylor (Producer), and Ian Kennedy (Lead Video Editor) contributed to this report.
Tags: , , , , , ,

SAN provides
Unbiased. Straight Facts.

Don’t just take our word for it.


Certified balanced reporting

According to media bias experts at AllSides

AllSides Certified Balanced May 2025

Transparent and credible

Awarded a perfect reliability rating from NewsGuard

100/100

Welcome back to trustworthy journalism.

Find out more

SAN provides
Unbiased. Straight Facts.

Don’t just take our word for it.


Certified balanced reporting

According to media bias experts at AllSides

AllSides Certified Balanced May 2025

Transparent and credible

Awarded a perfect reliability rating from NewsGuard

100/100

Welcome back to trustworthy journalism.

Find out more

Daily Newsletter

Start your day with fact-based news

Start your day with fact-based news

Learn more about our emails. Unsubscribe anytime.

By entering your email, you agree to the Terms and Conditions and acknowledge the Privacy Policy.