The UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, has urged for de-escalation in the Middle East after the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on Wednesday. Wennesland emphasized the need for immediate action to address the escalating tensions in the region.
Wennesland stated that he has been in discussions with various parties and member states in the region, including Lebanon, Egypt, and Qatar, to support efforts for regional de-escalation. He highlighted the growing risk of a serious escalation that could threaten regional stability and called for concerted efforts to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
The UN official underscored the importance of collective action to address the immediate threats and work towards establishing lasting peace in the region. He expressed his commitment to actively engage with all relevant parties to promote peace and stability.
Meanwhile, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared that it was Iran's 'duty' to avenge the killing of Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, which Iran attributed to Israel. According to reports, Khamenei ordered Iran to 'strike Israel directly' in response to the assassination.
Israel has not confirmed nor denied any involvement in the death of the Hamas leader. The situation remains tense as calls for de-escalation and efforts to prevent further conflict continue in the region.
