Senior Hamas Officials in Turkey and Egypt Are Terrified. Here's Why

Senior Hamas officials residing in Turkey and Egypt are reportedly taking extreme precautions following repeated threats from Israel targeting the group’s leadership abroad, particularly senior figures of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad based in Cairo.

According to the pro-Qatari newspaper Al-Arabi Al-Jadeed, Palestinian terror faction leaders abroad have been instructed to implement “strict security measures” after receiving warnings from officials in multiple countries where the organization’s political bureau members reside.

A source in Egypt told the newspaper that Cairo has warned against targeting Ziad Al-Nakhala, the head of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, who now resides in the Egyptian capital almost permanently in the wake of Israel’s escalating threats. As part of its role mediating ceasefire negotiations in Gaza, Egypt reportedly recently granted Al-Nakhala permanent residency in the country.

Meanwhile, a Hamas source confirmed to Al-Arabi Al-Jadeed that officials have been instructed to enhance security protocols.

“Several countries hosting members of the organization’s political bureau have issued warnings to implement heightened security measures,” the source said.

Turkey, in particular, has reportedly tightened security due to fears of potential attacks on high-ranking members of the organization, including Palestinian militants recently relocated there and released in the latest prisoner exchange.

The measures reflect ongoing regional tensions and the vulnerability of Hamas leaders abroad as Israel continues to signal its willingness to target senior figures outside the Gaza Strip.