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The Hamas representative in Tehran, Khaled Qaddoumi, has announced that Iran is preparing a decisive response to the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the head of Hamas’ political bureau. The assassination, which took place on July 31, has triggered strong reactions from Iranian leadership, with a promise of significant retaliation against Israel.
Iranian Leadership Vows Strong Response
Qaddoumi emphasized that Iran’s leadership is unified in its determination to respond to the killing of Haniyeh. He noted that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has assured Hamas leaders, including Khalil al-Hayya, the deputy head of the Hamas political bureau in Gaza, that Iran’s response will be “definite and decisive.” This assurance came during recent meetings in Tehran, where the situation was discussed in detail.
Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has also reiterated this stance, indicating that the response would be not only decisive but also “different in kind and manner” from past reactions. Qaddoumi conveyed that the Iranian government sees this as an opportunity to send a clear message to Israel and to prevent further actions by the Israeli regime.
Criticism of International Silence by Hamas in Iran
In his statements, Qaddoumi criticized the lack of international diplomatic pressure on Israel, particularly from the United States. He argued that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu feels emboldened to continue aggressive actions against Palestinians due to the absence of significant consequences. Qaddoumi expressed regret that no other international parties, especially in West Asia, are exerting pressure on Israel to restrain its actions.
“The most important reason why a criminal like Netanyahu is forging ahead with its genocide is the absence of diplomatic pressures from the United States. He does not feel such strains,” Qaddoumi said.
Haniyeh of Hamas Assassination and Its Aftermath
Ismail Haniyeh was in Tehran as an official guest to attend the swearing-in ceremony of President Pezeshkian, alongside other leaders from the so-called Axis of Resistance. His assassination on July 31, while in Tehran, has been widely condemned by Iranian authorities. The assassination is seen as a direct affront to Iran, given Haniyeh’s status as a guest in the country at the time of his death.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, has warned Israel of severe consequences. He described the assassination as a “criminal and terrorist” act by the Zionist regime and stressed that it necessitates a harsh response from the Islamic Republic. “The criminal and terrorist Zionist regime martyred our dear guest in our homeland and left us bereaved, but it also set the ground for a harsh punishment for itself,” Khamenei stated.
Iran’s Commitment to Retaliation
While Qaddoumi acknowledged that it is difficult to predict the exact scope of Iran’s response, he insisted that it would be substantial and certain. He emphasized that Iran’s retaliation is not only a matter of national pride but also a duty that has been underscored by the highest levels of Iranian leadership, including President Pezeshkian and Ayatollah Khamenei.
According to Qaddoumi, Iran’s response will be a significant moment in the ongoing conflict, reflecting the country’s commitment to standing with its allies in the region. As tensions continue to escalate, all eyes are on Iran to see how it will respond to what it views as a provocative and hostile act by Israel.