Hamas says it has begun process of choosing new leader

Hamas issued a statement on Saturday saying that it has initiated a broad consultation process to select a new leader of its movement following the assassination of its former leader Ismail Haniyeh.

In a statement, the movement said, "The martyr Ismail Haniyeh is a loss not only for the Palestinian people but also for the Arab and Islamic nations."

Hamas emphasised that Haniyeh's assassination would only strengthen the movement and its resistance, increasing their resolve to continue his path and intensifying their efforts against the Israeli occupation. 

"We assure our people and our nation that the movement's institutions remain active and have effective mechanisms to continue the resistance," the statement said.

Hamas also pledged to announce the results of these consultations once they are completed.