Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas’ political chief, was assassinated in Tehran, Iran, following the inauguration ceremony for Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed his death in a strike on his residence. Haniyeh’s killing comes amid an ongoing proxy war between Iran and Israel, and at a delicate time for the region. The conflict has drawn in other militant groups, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthi rebels in Yemen.
Haniyeh’s death may impact efforts to secure a cease-fire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. It follows a recent attack by Israel on Hezbollah in Lebanon and a vow by the Israeli Mossad chief to target Haniyeh after a terrorist attack by Hamas in October. Haniyeh’s sons were among those killed during the conflict with Israel.
The killing was condemned by Hamas and other militant groups, while Palestinian officials vowed to remain steadfast in the face of Israeli aggression. Another senior Hamas official, Yahya Sinwar, remains at large and is considered the mastermind of the October attack. The assassination is likely to escalate tensions between Israel and Iran, who have engaged in recent exchanges of attacks.
This is a developing story with updates expected.
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