With Hamas's centre of gravity shifting back to Gaza via Cairo, Mr Haniyeh may be eyeing Mr Meshal's job.

ECONOMIST: Israel and Palestine

Under this, the prime minister, Ismail Haniyeh, would resign to make way for someone agreed on by both parties.

ECONOMIST: One consequence of Beit Hanoun

Tensions have emerged with an older generation, including the prime minister, Ismail Haniyeh, who after an attack on UN summer camps pleaded for tolerance.

ECONOMIST: Israel and Gaza