Iran's supreme leader and representatives of Palestinian militias gathered in Tehran to mourn the death of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and his bodyguard, who were killed in an assassination blamed on Israel. The funeral service took place at Tehran University, where Ayatollah Ali Khamenei prayed over Haniyeh's coffin, with Iran's new President Masoud Pezeshkian by his side. The coffins were later moved through the streets of Tehran towards Azadi Square, with people throwing flowers in tribute.
Haniyeh had traveled to Tehran to attend Pezeshkian's inauguration and was seen alongside leaders from Palestinian Islamic Jihad and Hezbollah. Iranian media captured moments of camaraderie between Haniyeh and Pezeshkian, including a hug. However, tragedy struck when an airstrike hit a residence used by Haniyeh, leading to his untimely death. The attack is currently under investigation by Iranian authorities.
Israel had previously threatened to target Haniyeh and other Hamas leaders following an attack by the group on southern Israel that triggered conflict in Gaza. The assassination came shortly after Israel targeted a top Hezbollah commander in Beirut, Lebanon. Iran, a staunch supporter of Hamas and Hezbollah, condemned the attacks and called for restraint to prevent further escalation.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged all parties in the Middle East to avoid actions that could escalate tensions, emphasizing the need for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Blinken's remarks in Mongolia underscored the international concern over the volatile situation in the region.
Pezeshkian, in his inaugural address, expressed Iran's solidarity with the Palestinian cause, advocating for a world where Palestinian rights are respected and their aspirations fulfilled. He called for an end to the occupation and oppression faced by the Palestinian people, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The assassination of Ismail Haniyeh has reignited tensions in the region, raising concerns about the potential for further violence. International efforts are underway to defuse the situation and prevent a full-scale conflict between Israel, Iran, and their allies.
