Ismail Haniyeh Assassinated in Iran: Middle East Crisis Deepens Amid Gaza Conflict"
Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated early in the morning in Iran, according to the militant group, raising fears of increased regional conflict.
Iran's Revolutionary Guards confirmed Haniyeh's death and are investigating the incident, following his attendance at a presidential swearing-in ceremony.
Israel has not commented yet, and its military is assessing the situation without new security guidelines for civilians.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that Washington would work to reduce tensions but would defend Israel if necessary.
The assassination, coming after Israel killed a Hezbollah commander, complicates prospects for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri condemned the killing as an escalation aimed at breaking Hamas' resolve, asserting their confidence in victory.
Iran's top security body is expected to meet to plan a response, given Haniyeh's close ties with Tehran.
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Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and factions in the West Bank have condemned the killing, calling for strikes and demonstrations
Haniyeh, who had been based in Qatar, was a key figure in Hamas’ international diplomacy and had lost three sons in an Israeli airstrike.
The assassination occurs amid ongoing violence in Gaza and increasing risks of a broader regional conflict, with failed ceasefire talks and heightened tensions with Hezbollah.