In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has been killed in an Iranian Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) guest house north of Tehran. The assassination has drawn swift and strong condemnation from multiple international leaders and organizations, igniting fears of further conflict.
As the shockwaves from this event ripple through the geopolitical landscape, nations and militant groups are rallying to respond to the incident that many are calling a deliberate political murder.
Iranian Air Force Commander Vows Retaliation
Brigadier General Ali Hajizadeh stated, “A harsh response awaits the Zionists for martyring Ismail Haniyeh.”
Lebanon PM Condemns Assassination
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the assassination, though no further details were provided in the initial statement.
Russia Labels Haniyeh’s Killing as ‘Political Murder’
MOSCOW, RUSSIA — Russia has condemned the assassination, calling it an “unacceptable political murder” likely to escalate regional tensions. Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov emphasized the gravity of the act, describing it as a deliberate political strategy.
“We strongly condemn the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh. This action poses a serious danger of escalating the global concern and threat in the region,” Bogdanov stated.
Hezbollah Confirms Leader Present in Bombed Building
BEIRUT, LEBANON — Hezbollah confirmed that their leader, Sayyed Fouad Shukr (Hajj Mohsen), was present in the building targeted by an Israeli attack in Beirut. The fate of Shukr and other civilians remains unknown as rescue teams continue to search the rubble.
Turkey Condemns Haniyeh Assassination
ANKARA, TURKEY — The Turkish Foreign Ministry condemned the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, describing it as “heinous” and criticizing the Israeli government. “Haniyeh’s assassination once again demonstrates that Israel’s Netanyahu government has no intention of achieving peace,” the ministry stated.
Israel Closes Northern Airspace
JERUSALEM, ISRAEL — Israel has closed its northern airspace for 24 hours, from the Hadera-Haifa line northward, due to fears of large-scale missile launches in response to recent regional events.
Iranian Officials in Shock
TEHRAN, IRAN — Iranian officials are reportedly in shock following Haniyeh’s assassination, viewing it as a severe blow to Iran’s security and regional influence.
Iranian Commander Warns of Bloodshed
An Iranian commander issued a stern warning: “Be prepared to tell the Zionists what the punishment is for shedding the blood of a guest in our home.”
Missile Targets Hamas Leader’s Bedroom
TEHRAN, IRAN — Ismail Haniyeh was reportedly in his bedroom in the IRGC guest house when a missile struck.
IRNA Releases Video of Haniyeh’s Final Moments
TEHRAN, IRAN — The Iranian news agency IRNA has released a video showing Haniyeh’s final public moments, highlighting the sense of security he had in Iran before the attack.
Israel Silent on Hamas Leader’s Death
Israel has remained silent on the reported killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. However, at approximately 8 a.m., the Israeli military issued a statement indicating that there are “no changes in the Home Front Command defensive guidelines.” The military emphasized that it is “conducting a situational assessment” and assured the public that they would be informed of any updates.