By Joke Kujenya
HAMAS Leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in an Israeli raid at his Tehran residence, as confirmed by Iranian state media.
This targeted attack also claimed the life of one of his bodyguards.
Hamas blames Israel for the assassination, which has not been officially commented on by Israeli authorities
The incident followed an Israeli airstrike in Beirut that resulted in three deaths, including two children, and left 74 wounded.
This strike targeted a Hezbollah commander.
In Gaza, officials reported retrieving 42 bodies from Khan Younis, bringing the death toll of Palestinians to 255 in the nine-day Israeli ground operation.
The conflict has seen at least 39,400 Palestinians killed and 90,996 wounded, while 1,139 Israelis died, with over 200 taken captive since Hamas-led attacks on October 7.
Iran’s foreign ministry condemned Haniyeh’s killing, stating his “blood will never be wasted.”
Deputy Russian Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov labeled the assassination as “absolutely unacceptable,” predicting further escalation.
Turkey also criticized the act, accusing Israel’s government of disregarding peace efforts.
In response to Haniyeh’s death, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council and senior IRGC commanders convened to plan their reaction.
Hamas’s Deputy Secretary-General, Muhammad al-Hindi, claimed the assassination was aimed at both the Palestinian resistance and Iran, describing Israel’s actions as signs of desperation and confusion.
The attack on Haniyeh comes amid rising tensions in the Middle East, with increasing conflicts between Israel and Hezbollah, and ongoing hostilities in Gaza.
