Hamas Names Architect of Oct. 7 Attacks as New Leader

Hamas announced on Tuesday that Yahya Sinwar, one of the masterminds behind the deadly Oct.

7 attacks, was selected as the next head of the group’s political office, consolidating his power over the militant group as it continues to fight Israel.

Mr. Sinwar has long been considered an architect of Hamas’s military strategy in Gaza. But now he will also replace Ismail Haniyeh, the group’s top political leader who was a key liaison in the indirect cease-fire talks with Israel.

Mr. Haniyeh was killed in an explosion last week in Tehran.

Hamas and Iran both blamed Israel for his assassination — which took place during the inauguration of the new Iranian president — although Israel has not publicly taken responsibility.