Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed that the country will avenge the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed on Iranian soil. Khamenei, addressing Israel, stated, “You killed our dear guest in our house and now have paved the way for your harsh punishment. We consider it our duty to ask for the blood of our dear guest.”
Newly inaugurated Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also paid homage to Haniyeh, referring to him as the “brave leader of the Palestinian resistance.” In a poignant tribute, Pezeshkian expressed, “Today, Iran is mourning its sharer of sorrows and joys, the proud companion of the path of resistance, the martyr of al-Quds, Haj Ismail Haniyeh. Yesterday I raised his victorious hand, and today I have to carry him on my shoulders to bury.”
Pezeshkian emphasized that the bond between Iran and Palestine would grow stronger, vowing that the path of resistance and the defense of the oppressed would continue with greater determination. He also declared that Iran would defend its territorial integrity and ensure those responsible for the attack would regret their actions.
The Palestinian militant group Hamas confirmed Haniyeh’s death, claiming he was killed in an Israeli “strike” on his residence. While the Israeli military has not commented on the incident, senior officials have indicated a persistent military campaign against Hamas in Gaza, following the events of October 7.
Before his assassination, Haniyeh was in Tehran for President Pezeshkian’s inauguration and to engage in discussions with Iranian leaders. Iran has long been a crucial supporter of Hamas, and Haniyeh played a key role in Gaza ceasefire negotiations and hostage discussions. The ceremony also saw the attendance of significant figures, including the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and former Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.Iran’s Khamenei vows ‘harsh punishment’ for Israel after Haniyeh killing