Hamas says that Ismail Haniyeh's move is unrelated to the unrest rocking the Arab region. But it is likely to be seen as Hamas' effort to convey a more open image to the outside world.
For the first time since the group's violent takeover of the Gaza Strip in 2007, there is a Hamas foreign minister.
Haniyeh appointed Mohammed Awad to the post. Awad will also keep his job as planning minister.
Thursday's reshuffle added five ministers, including one woman. Most ministers kept their current portfolios.
Hamas' more moderate rival, Fatah, controls the West Bank. Hamas rejects peace talks with Israel and its terrorists have targeted Israel with rocket attacks.