Israel’s approval of limited Gaza force a calculated manoeuvre, experts say
Analysts say Israeli cabinet’s decision aims to deflect US pressure and fragment the Gaza Strip.

Analysts say Israeli cabinet’s decision aims to deflect US pressure and fragment the Gaza Strip.



![Khalil al-Hayya was chosen as Hamas’s new leader on Monday [File: Emmanuel Dunand/AFP]](/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/AFP__20210422__98G8MM__v1__HighRes__PalestinianPoliticsElection-1784547172.jpg-1784741316.webp?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)


![The new leader of Hamas, Khalil al-Hayya [Mohamed El Shahed/AFP]](/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/AFP__20171122__UI78E__v1__HighRes__EgyptPalestinianConflictPolitics-1784547747.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)


Hamas has announced the election of Khalil al-Hayya as the new head of its political bureau.
Veteran negotiator assumes Palestinian group’s overall leadership following a wartime election process.
Al-Hayya was previously one of the five-member leadership council after previous Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar was killed.
Israeli assassinations of several key leaders force Hamas to find new head, a process expected to be completed next week
Israel’s relentless Gaza attacks aim to sabotage the ‘ceasefire’ and ensure perpetual chaos, analysts warn.
Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, has confirmed that he will run for office again.
The end of Hamas governance in Gaza may change who administers it, but not who holds power over Palestinian life.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas announces first legislative elections in 20 years.
A chronological look at key milestones from Hamas’s 2006 election victory to its 2026 exit from governing Gaza.
The NCAG will oversee civilian affairs such as health and education, as well as security.