Hamas is reportedly preparing to elect a new leader in the coming days or weeks, according to sources cited by the Saudi outlet Asharq. The main contenders are Khalil al-Hayya, seen as pro-Iran and favoring continued armed conflict with Israel, and Khaled Mashaal, who is viewed as closer to Qatar and supports negotiated compromises. Hayya is considered the frontrunner due to strong backing from leaders in both Gaza and the West Bank. The election, overseen by Hamas's general Shura council, comes after the deaths of previous leaders and amid internal disagreements over Gaza's future and regional alliances.