The Leaders of Hamas: A Closer Look

The Palestinian movement Hamas, born out of the first uprising or ‘Intifada’ against Israel’s occupation of Gaza and the West Bank, was founded in 1987 with the aim of freeing Palestinians from Israeli subjugation. Led by high-ranking figures, Hamas defines itself as a “Palestinian Islamic national liberation and resistance movement” rooted in Islam.

Initially an offshoot of Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood, Hamas established its military wing, the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, to fight against Israel. In 2017, the movement revised its charter, accepting the idea of a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders.

In recent years, Hamas leaders have operated both in Gaza and abroad, with figures like Ismail Haniyeh, Khaled Meshaal, Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif, and Marwan Issa playing key roles. These leaders have faced assassination attempts and imprisonment but continue to lead the group in its struggle for Palestinian autonomy.

Each leader brings a unique perspective and set of experiences to the leadership of Hamas, shaping the movement’s strategies and approach in confronting Israeli occupation.