The Iranian Shadow Over Gaza’s Future: Hamas votes for a new leader as the ceasefire continues to fail

The Iranian Shadow Over Gaza’s Future: Hamas votes for a new leader as the ceasefire continues to fail

Author: The New Arab May 22, 2026 Duration: 47:03

As the region scrambles to secure a ceasefire in Iran, the ceasefire in Gaza looks more unstable by the day. 

Israel continues to bomb the besieged enclave, killing civilans and adding to the misery that the people of Gaza have had to endure for over two years now. 

While the people of Gaza suffer, Hamas have been choosing a new leader. 

Many of its leadership were killed during the war and the group needs a new leader to guide it into the future. 

This week, we look at the state of the ceasefire in Gaza, the bodies that were created as part of the ceasefire, the humanitarian crisis. 

Also, we examine the frontrunners in race to be the new leader of Hamas, their differences, and what the future holds for Hamas in light of the ongoing war in Iran. 

Joining us to look at the ceasefire deal we're joined by Yousef Munayyer, Head of the Palestine Israel Program at Arab Center Washington, DC (@ArabCenterDC).

And to talk us through the race to be Hamas' new leader, we speak with Jaser AbuMoussa, Senior fellow at the Middle East Institute (@MiddleEastInst) in, Washington, DC, and senior policy advisor at the International Peace Institute in New York. You can read Jaser's Substack here.

This podcast is written and produced by Hugo Goodridge (@hugogoodridge).

Theme music by Omar al-Fil with additional music from Audio Network.

To get in touch with the producers, follow then tweet us at @TNAPodcasts or email podcast@newarab.com


From a London newsroom, The New Arab Voice reaches across continents, offering a distinct perspective on events and ideas shaping communities from the Middle East and North Africa to Asia and global diasporas. This isn't just a headlines recap. Each episode weaves together rigorous news analysis, cultural insight, and historical context, treating complex political shifts and societal transformations with the depth they deserve. You'll hear from people living the stories-artists, analysts, and everyday voices-providing a nuanced understanding that moves beyond simplistic narratives. The podcast reflects the rich tapestry of the regions it covers, finding the connections between past and present, policy and personal experience. For listeners seeking to move past soundbites and explore the interplay of power, identity, and heritage, The New Arab Voice provides essential listening. It’s where current affairs meet deep storytelling, all grounded in the extensive journalistic tradition of The New Arab. Tune in for conversations that challenge assumptions and illuminate the underreported, fostering a more informed and engaged perspective on a dynamic part of the world.
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