News broke this morning of the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, sparking concerns of escalating conflict in Gaza and the wider Middle East. Speculation pointed to Israel, although no official confirmation was made.
Haniyeh’s death was confirmed by both Hamas and Iran’s Revolutionary Guards following a missile strike at a guesthouse in Tehran. This event followed Israel’s claim of killing Hezbollah’s top military commander in Beirut.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made no direct reference to Haniyeh’s assassination but vowed to stand strong against threats. The assassination throws negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire into further uncertainty.
Hamas declared plans for retaliation, while Iran vowed revenge on the US for supporting Israel. Despite global condemnation, Israel remains committed to ceasefire talks and the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza.
The killing of Haniyeh and Hezbollah’s commander jeopardizes peace efforts, with regions bracing for potential further violence and retaliation.
