The election of Yahya Sinwar as the new head of the political bureau of the Palestinian Hamas movement could hinder negotiations with Israel on a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, according to Report, which cites The Wall Street Journal.
According to the newspaper, Sinwar's leadership of Hamas may obstruct US efforts to achieve peace in the Palestinian enclave. It is noted that he will adhere to a "hard line" and "maximalist position" to force Israel into a compromise.
Right-wing Israeli politicians, however, insist on the complete destruction of Hamas' military potential and the killing of Sinwar, complicating Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ability to agree with them on possible truce terms.
The new Hamas leader has become the top target for the Israeli military, hindering his ability to lead the movement and negotiate a ceasefire, the newspaper adds.
On Tuesday, Sinwar was elected as the head of Hamas' political bureau. He is considered one of the founders of the movement's military wing - the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades - and Hamas' internal security organization "Majd," which specialized in carrying out punitive operations against Palestinians collaborating with Israel.