Hello. The killing of Ismail Haniyeh leaves Hamas with a power vacuum within its top leadership. Rushdi Abualouf and Matt Murphy look into the succession questions now facing the group. In the US, Jude Sheerin explains how presidential candidates pick - and thoroughly vet - their potential running mates. We're also reporting on the homelessness crisis in Australia and on coffee culture in China's financial capital, Shanghai.

QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Looming battle between rival factions

As head of its political bureau based in Qatar, Ismail Haniyeh led Hamas's outreach to regional governments. Credit: Getty Images 

The killing of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran has left the leadership of the Palestinian armed group in "a state of shock", top officials have told the BBC. The looming succession process could be lengthy and chaotic.

How does Hamas choose its political leader? 

Under normal circumstances, Hamas's political bureau is chosen by the Shura Council, whose members are elected by local council groups. The body then elects the 15-person political bureau, who choose a leader. But with members scattered across the Middle East, and many on Israeli wanted lists, the contest is almost certain to be drawn out.

How prepared is Hamas for a leadership change?

A new candidate was set to be chosen in 2025. Haniyeh's death could now expedite an internal battle between competing wings of the movement.

What are those rival factions?

There are those keen to reach a negotiated settlement to the war and extremist elements more closely allied with Iran. Anger over the death of Haniyeh - and the January assassination of his deputy Saleh al-Arouri - likely puts the hardliners in pole position. On Wednesday, Hamas officials told the BBC that there were now three likely candidates to put their names forward in the coming days. 

• War in Gaza: Ismael Haniyeh was a key interlocutor in the ceasefire negotiations brokered by Qatar, the US and Egypt. Paul Adams writes about where his killing leaves the talks, while Jeremy Bowen reflects on its consequences for the wider region.

• Iran's reaction: The targeted killing is a major loss of face for Tehran, writes BBC Persian special correspondent Kasra Naji.

• Real-time updates: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has given a televised speech acknowledging that challenging days lie ahead - but that the country was prepared for any scenario. Get the latest.

THE BIG PICTURE

Australia's homelessness crisis

71-year-old Mary (not her real name) has spent nine months living in her car after her landlord evicted her. Credit: BBC

Homelessness services around Australia have reported a jump in demand amid a national housing crisis – with women and children the clear majority of those needing help. Katy Watson speaks to some of the people who have found themselves on the streets.

And finally... in China

From Rome to Seattle, plenty of cities lay claim to being the world's coffee-drinking capital. But there could be a new contender in Shanghai. A festival dedicated to "coffee culture" reported more than 9,500 cafés in China's financial capital - largely niche, independent outlets often serving experimental brews. Stephen McDonnell offers you a flavour of the city.