The Saudi daily Asharq Al-Awsat reports, citing sources within the organization, that Hamas has shifted its center of gravity from Qatar to Turkey in recent months. The move was reflected in the group's decision to hold internal elections for the head of its political bureau in Istanbul in May, which ended without a decision. The continuation of the elections is expected to take place in Turkey, according to the report.
The Saudi daily Asharq Al-Awsat has now reported, citing sources within Hamas, that the group held internal elections for the head of its political bureau in Istanbul in May. The elections ended without a decision, and the continuation is expected to take place in Turkey. This is the latest development in the story of Hamas's organizational shift from Qatar to Turkey.
The Zioneer first reported at 10:03 Jerusalem that Hamas had moved the center of its operations to Turkey, citing Saudi sources. Throughout the morning, details were added: the vast majority of senior Hamas officials now reside in Turkey for extended periods, and all meetings, including ceasefire talks, are held there. The internal elections were mentioned in that early reporting. At 12:02 Jerusalem, The Zioneer further reported that Hamas had relocated the bulk of its operations to reduce pressure on Qatar and was seeking to renew ties with Syria.
The broader context aligns with warnings from Israeli analysts. The Zioneer reported on June 22 that former Mossad counter-terror head Oded Eilam warned Turkey is becoming the central base for Hamas. The report also follows other developments: a Hamas delegation traveling from Cairo to Turkey for expanded talks, and the group's announcement of dissolving its Gaza government.
The report is based on unnamed sources within the organization and has not been independently confirmed. The exact outcome of the elections and the leadership succession remain unclear.
4 developments
- StrongHamas says delegation completed Cairo talks, heading to Turkey
- StrongArab report: Hamas delegation flies from Cairo to Turkey ahead of expanded ceasefire talks
- DevelopingHamas awaits Israeli elections amid stalled Phase 2 talks, disappointed with Iran
- DevelopingFormer Mossad official warns Turkey becoming Hamas's new center of gravity
Source and signal
- Internal intake