In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has directed a direct military response against Israel following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. This order was issued during an emergency session of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, according to three Iranian officials with knowledge of the meeting.
Haniyeh, who was in Tehran for the inauguration of Iran’s new president, was killed under circumstances that have led Iran and Hamas to accuse Israel of orchestrating the assassination. Israel, currently engaged in a protracted conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, has not confirmed or denied involvement in Haniyeh’s death. The killing of Haniyeh comes amidst a broader backdrop of Israeli military actions and strained relations between the two countries.
The assassination has significantly heightened the already tense relations between Iran and Israel. For nearly ten months, both nations have been entangled in indirect confrontations, with Iran leveraging its regional allies and proxy forces to exert pressure on Israel without directly engaging in open warfare.
Iran’s response to the killing has been swift and assertive. In April, the Islamic Republic made a notable display of its military capabilities, launching a large-scale assault with missiles and drones in retaliation for an Israeli attack on its compound in Damascus, Syria. Despite the extensive missile and drone strikes, Israel’s defensive measures successfully intercepted most of the incoming projectiles, resulting in minimal damage.
Iran has traditionally used its regional influence to confront Israel through proxy groups and diplomatic pressure rather than direct military engagement. However, the latest developments suggest a shift towards more overt actions. The issuance of Khamenei’s order indicates a potential escalation from proxy conflict to direct military confrontation, raising concerns about a broader regional conflict.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with fears of further escalation and potential regional destabilization. The response from both sides will be crucial in determining whether the current cycle of violence will expand or if diplomatic efforts will mitigate further hostilities. The question is also as to why Iran is getting triggered by the killing of Hamas leader and does it indicate that Iran also supports Hamas?
