PA deputy chief congratulates new Hamas leader al-Hayya

Palestinian Authority (PA) deputy chief Hussein al-Sheikh congratulated Khalil al-Hayya on his election as the new head of Hamas, according to a statement from the terror group. Al-Sheikh wished al-Hayya success, who in turn expressed commitment to serving the Palestinian people and achieving unity. Israel's Foreign Ministry criticized the PA, stating they are acting "hand-in-hand" with Hamas, and identified al-Hayya as "one of the architects" of the October 7, 2023, massacre. Al-Hayya, who has close ties with Iran and has led Hamas's ceasefire negotiation team, previously called the October 7 massacre "a source of pride for our people."