Hamas has not yet chosen a new leader following the killing of Yahya Sinwar, as confirmed by the deputy head of Hamas’ political bureau Mousa Abu Marzouk during a visit to Russia. Marzouk stated that discussions are still ongoing and a new leader has not been selected yet.
Marzouk mentioned that once a new leader is chosen, Hamas will make an official announcement regarding the appointment. This development comes after the recent demise of Yahya Sinwar, leaving a leadership vacuum within the organization.
During his visit to Russia, Marzouk also addressed the issue of the two Russian citizens currently held hostage in Gaza. He assured that in any potential prisoner exchange, the Russian hostages, identified as Alexandre Troufanov and Maxim Herkin, would be released first as a gesture of respect to Moscow.
Marzouk elaborated that the two Russian hostages, who are Israeli soldiers, could potentially be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners currently held in Israeli territory. This exchange would be part of a future deal if negotiations progress successfully.
The statement made by Marzouk sheds light on the ongoing discussions within Hamas regarding leadership matters and the potential for a prisoner exchange involving the Russian hostages and Palestinian prisoners.