Hamas Political Chief Ismail Haniyeh Killed in Tehran Attack
In a shocking development, Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Tehran, according to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The paramilitary organization reported that Haniyeh died from a “short-range projectile” fired from outside his guesthouse while he was in Iran for the inauguration of President Massoud Pezeshkian.
The IRGC stated that the projectile, weighing approximately 7 kg (16 lbs), caused a significant explosion that resulted in Haniyeh’s death along with his bodyguard last Wednesday. The organization has accused Israel, with alleged support from the U.S., of orchestrating the attack. In contrast, Western media sources have indicated that explosives were planted within the guesthouse by Israeli operatives.
The IRGC’s account has raised eyebrows and caused embarrassment for Iran, given the high security surrounding Haniyeh’s visit. Reports suggest that since the incident, numerous IRGC officers have been arrested or dismissed, reflecting internal turmoil within the organization. The IRGC’s intelligence agency has reportedly taken over the investigation, interrogating staff from Haniyeh’s guesthouse and seizing their electronic devices.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei conducted prayers for Haniyeh, further underscoring the political implications of his death. Following the incident, Iranian politicians have undergone a security overhaul.
Speculation about the circumstances of Haniyeh’s death continues, with various reports suggesting potential involvement of Israeli intelligence agents who allegedly entered the guesthouse to plant explosives, which might have been set to detonate remotely from outside Iran. Analysts note that if substantiated, these claims would signify a significant failure for the IRGC, which has long overseen internal security.
In response to Haniyeh’s assassination, both Iran and Hamas have vowed retaliation, with the IRGC warning that Israel will face “severe punishment.” Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed group in Lebanon, has also pledged revenge.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has informed citizens to remain vigilant, noting that “challenging days lie ahead.” As tensions rise, Israel remains on high alert, and several international airlines have suspended flights to the region.
Tragically, this series of events comes shortly after an Israeli airstrike reportedly resulted in multiple casualties in Gaza, further escalating the already volatile situation. US President Joe Biden has acknowledged that Haniyeh’s death complicates ongoing ceasefire negotiations aimed at mitigating the ongoing conflict that erupted following a devastating attack by Hamas on Israel last October. The conflict has resulted in significant loss of life on both sides, with the humanitarian crisis in Gaza becoming increasingly critical.
As the situation develops, ECNETNews will continue to provide updates on this unfolding crisis in the Middle East.
