Global Outrage over Assassination of Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran

Iran’s Harsh Response: Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed “harsh punishment” for Israel, condemning the action as a prelude to retaliation. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian has pledged to defend the nation’s integrity and exact revenge for Haniyeh’s death.

Palestinian Authority’s Denunciation: Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas, despite being a rival, has labeled the killing a “cowardly act” and called for Palestinian unity and resistance against Israeli actions.

Qatar and Turkey’s Warnings: Qatar’s foreign ministry decried the assassination as a “heinous crime,” while Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned it as a “perfidious assassination” aimed at undermining the Palestinian cause and causing regional chaos.

=US and International Calls for Restraint: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the need for a ceasefire, while Germany urged restraint to avoid further regional conflict. Russia and China both condemned the assassination, with Russia predicting increased mutual hatred and China calling it “completely unacceptable.”

Regional Allies Rally: Allies of Hamas, including Hezbollah and Yemen’s Huthi rebels, have rallied in support of Haniyeh, condemning the killing as a violation of laws and values. Afghanistan’s Taliban also expressed their sorrow over Haniyeh’s death.

Widespread Concern: Egypt, Iraq, and Oman have voiced concerns that the escalation risks igniting broader regional conflicts and destabilizing the area.