A report in Palestinian Authority media appears to dent the reputation Hamas has enjoyed as an organization whose leaders lead austere lifestyles, as opposed to Fatah's corrupt leadership.

The report, in the independent Kafiyeh network, claims that Hamas Gaza kingpin Ismail Haniyeh has bought property worth $4 million in Gaza and apparently intends to build there. The purchase is reportedly registered in the name of one of his sons.

Haniyeh has reportedly purchased real estate for his family members as well, including an apartment for his wife.

The source for the report is an unnamed person who is close to Haniyeh. The source said he was astonished to learn of the sums Haniyeh is paying for the property, in view of the fact that when he was Sheikh Ahmed Yasin's bureau manager, he made do with a meager salary that barely sufficed for his family's survival.

One speculation cited in the news item is that the money fell into Hamas's hands when it took over Gaza from the forces of rival terror group Fatah.