Doha – Senior Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya, head of the group’s ceasefire negotiation team, has made his first public appearance following an Israeli airstrike on Qatar’s capital, Doha. The attack had reportedly targeted al-Hayya and other Palestinian resistance members, aiming to eliminate key figures in Hamas’ leadership.
In an interview with Arab TV, al-Hayya confirmed that he survived the strike but revealed the tragic deaths of his son and his chief of staff during the assault. He provided details of the attack, highlighting its intensity and the risks faced by Hamas officials during Israeli military operations.
Al-Hayya’s emergence underscores the resilience of Hamas’ leadership despite Israel’s efforts to disrupt the group’s command structure. As the head of the negotiation team, he plays a crucial role in ongoing discussions regarding the implementation of ceasefire agreements and the release of hostages.
The Israeli strike on Doha had drawn immediate international attention, raising concerns over escalating violence and its potential impact on regional peace efforts. Al-Hayya’s public appearance signals Hamas’ determination to continue its diplomatic and military strategy despite recent setbacks.
Observers note that his statements are likely aimed at both domestic and international audiences, conveying Hamas’ survival, organizational continuity, and commitment to its political and military objectives.
This development comes at a critical juncture, as indirect talks between Hamas and Israel, mediated by Egypt, are underway to negotiate terms of a ceasefire and the safe return of hostages. The presence of al-Hayya reassures Hamas’ negotiating partners of the group’s operational leadership and strategic coherence despite recent losses.
