Popular rage flared in Gaza targeting Hamas official abroad Khalil al-Hayya amid recent setbacks in ceasefire negotiations. Gaza Strip inhabitants consider the inflexible stance of Qatar-based leadership an extra burden, with these senior figures "isolated from realities on the ground and everyday hardship in the Gaza Strip." Additionally, Gazans charge al-Hayya, who leads the negotiation team, with wagering on the people's account through his delaying tactics in talks.
"They exist in one location while we remain in another. We are those perishing, suffering hunger and displacement, as choices get made beyond Gaza Strip boundaries, without considering our situation," a Palestinian Gaza resident stated. Gaza advocates specifically blamed Khalil al-Hayya for "prioritizing political and organizational concerns" over lives and Gaza's public welfare, particularly given recent negotiation obstacles.
Moreover, Gaza inhabitants urged Hamas' foreign leadership to reassess its negotiating stance and advance urgently toward Israeli ceasefire arrangements. A Palestinian advocate observed that "Khalil al-Hayya, Khaled Mashaal, Taher al-Nunu, Sami Abu Zuhri, Basem Naim, Ghazi Hamad and their remaining circle (positioned overseas), should recognize that Gaza's population lacks endurance for continued suffering. Restoring normal Gaza existence and nourishing children surpasses your roles, positions, wealth, and whatever objectives you pursue."
Khalil al-Hayya served as deputy to Gaza Hamas leader, Yahya Sinwar, before the conflict, and remains his trusted ally. After Sinwar's elimination by IDF forces, al-Hayya assumed his role, gaining appointment among five Hamas "Leadership Council" members based in Qatar. Together with Zaher Jabarin, he represents a senior figure aligned with Iranian interests. He joins numerous terror organization leaders who departed the Gaza Strip before hostilities, subsequently managing ceasefire talks and captive negotiations.
