The killing of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in an Israeli airstrike in Iran has sparked widespread regional and international condemnation, raising concerns about escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Iran's Response Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed harsh punishment against Israel, stating that avenging Haniyeh's death is Iran's duty. Iran's new President Masoud Pezeshkian echoed these sentiments, promising retribution and declaring three days of national mourning for Haniyeh, who was in Tehran for Pezeshkian's inauguration.

Regional Condemnation Several countries in the region have condemned the strike:

Pakistan: Described the killing as a "reckless act" and labeled it as "terrorism."

Turkey: President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the assassination as treacherous and shameful, expressing support for the Palestinian cause.

Qatar: Questioned the future of Israel-Hamas negotiations, condemning the strike as a "heinous crime" and a dangerous escalation.

Yemen's Houthis: Condemned the killing as a "terrorist crime" and a violation of international laws.

International Reactions

United States: Secretary of State Anthony Blinken denied any U.S. involvement in the strike, emphasizing the importance of continuing efforts towards a ceasefire.

China: Voiced concern over the potential for increased regional instability and condemned the assassination.

Russia: Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov called the strike an "unacceptable political murder," warning it could further escalate tensions.
United Nations The UN Human Rights Office issued a report accusing Israel of torturing Palestinian detainees and holding them without access to legal rights, adding to the criticisms amid the ongoing conflict.

Impact on Israel-Hamas Negotiations

The strike has raised questions about the future of Israel-Hamas negotiations, with Qatar highlighting the challenges of mediation when one side's negotiator is assassinated. The killing has also prompted various Palestinian factions in the West Bank to call for a general strike and protests against what they described as state terrorism by Israel.

As tensions rise, the international community remains concerned about the potential for a broader conflict, urging both sides to work towards lasting peace and security in the region.