The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) announced on Saturday, August 3, 2024, that its leadership has initiated a broad consultation process within its leadership and Shura institutions to select a new head of the movement's political bureau following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh in the Iranian capital, Tehran.

In a statement, Hamas emphasized its strong institutional framework and deeply rooted Shura (consultative) system, citing past instances where it swiftly appointed replacements for slain leaders, adhering to its internal regulations and procedures.

The statement declared that following the martyrdom of Haniyeh, the movement's leadership has commenced a comprehensive consultation process within its leadership and Shura institutions to elect a new leader.

"Since the first hours of the heinous and criminal Zionist assassination targeting the head of the movement's political bureau, the political bureau and the Shura Council convened in emergency meetings characterized by faith and brotherhood," the statement added.

Hamas clarified that Haniyeh was not only a loss for the movement but also for the Palestinian people, the Arab and Islamic nations, and freedom-loving individuals worldwide. The widespread reaction and solidarity across the globe are a testament to this, they emphasized.

The movement asserted that Haniyeh's assassination would only strengthen Hamas and the Palestinian resistance, solidifying their commitment to his path and principles. His pure and precious blood will ignite the flames of resistance, fueling its intensity and escalation.

Hamas assured that its executive institutions and Shura frameworks continue their operations, equipped with effective mechanisms to ensure the continuation of the resistance movement even in the most challenging circumstances.

The movement stated that it would announce the results of the consultations upon completion. It also refuted claims circulating on social media and in some media outlets regarding the appointment of specific individuals to the leadership position, stating that these reports are baseless.

On Wednesday, Hamas and Iran announced Haniyeh's assassination in an Israeli airstrike targeting his residence in Tehran. The attack came a day after Haniyeh attended the inauguration ceremony of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.

Haniyeh's assassination comes amidst a devastating war waged by Israel, with full US support, against Gaza since October 7, 2023. The conflict has resulted in over 130,000 Palestinian casualties, most of them children and women, and over 10,000 missing.

Israel continues its war, disregarding the UN Security Council's resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire and the International Court of Justice's orders to take measures to prevent acts of genocide and improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza.