Khalil al-Hayya, who has taken over leadership of Hamas following Yahya Sinwar, has stated that the organization's goals remain unchanged. In public remarks, he has called on the Arab world to provide Hamas with weapons and funds to carry out the destruction of Israel.
Some diplomatic observers have suggested al-Hayya could serve as an intermediary, but his public statements present a different picture. He has emphasized his commitment to Hamas' military campaign against Israel and his connections to Iran.
Al-Hayya is a senior Hamas veteran who previously served as deputy to Sinwar and worked to strengthen the organization's ties with Tehran. His ideology aligns with Hamas' Islamist doctrine and its stated opposition to Israel.
In a circulated video, al-Hayya addressed the Arab world, saying: "Give us money, weapons and airplanes, and we will save you the trouble and eliminate the Zionist entity. We swear to the nation: We will eliminate the occupation from the land of Palestine."
His statements have prompted renewed concern in Israel that Hamas has not shifted its objectives despite the ongoing conflict and international diplomatic initiatives.
Israeli observers view al-Hayya's leadership as confirmation that prospects for a postwar settlement with Hamas remain limited. His remarks highlight the organization's continued focus on armed conflict rather than any policy change. His appeal to Arab nations to supply Hamas with resources while it pursues armed action has reinforced perceptions in Israel that the group remains committed to its stated military objectives.