Iran’s Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref has spoken out against the assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh, denouncing it as “another form of state terrorism” by Israel. While Israel has not confirmed or denied involvement, both Hamas and Iran have blamed Tel Aviv for the killing.
Aref criticized the international community for ignoring the Zionist regime’s crimes and violating international laws. The attack on Haniyeh reportedly took place at a guesthouse in Tehran managed by the IRGC, where the Hamas leader was attending a ceremony.
Iran has declared three days of national mourning for Haniyeh and vowed to seek justice for his death. Aref, appointed as the first deputy by Iran’s newly elected President Pezeshkian, emphasized Iran’s support for the Palestinian people and the resistance front.
The Iranian government, including Ayatollah Khamenei and President Pezeshkian, has condemned the killing and promised to defend the country’s honor. Haniyeh’s funeral will be held in Tehran before his body is transferred to Doha for burial.