Leaders Scramble for Peace as Tensions Soar Between Iran and Israel

Middle Eastern leaders convened at an OIC emergency summit in Jeddah amidst rising tensions following the assassination of Hamas' political leader in Tehran. Efforts are being made to navigate peace talks between Israel and Gaza, with regional stability hanging in the balance.

Amid escalating tensions following the assassination of Hamas' political leader in Tehran, leaders from Middle Eastern countries convened at an emergency summit of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Jeddah, CNN reported. The summit aimed to explore peace options, hoping Tehran might pull back for progress on Gaza peace talks.

Iran's leaders have vowed vengeance against Israel, who they claim orchestrated the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh. Although Israel hasn't confirmed its role, flight cancellations across Iran and neighboring countries underscore fears of imminent missile strikes, potentially escalating Israel's war in Gaza.

Attending the OIC Summit, Iran's Acting Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri faced urgent calls for de-escalation. Jordan's foreign minister Ayman Safadi stated, "The first step towards stopping the escalation is ending its root cause—continued Israeli aggression on Gaza." US Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted progress in ceasefire negotiations, warning that any regional tensions could jeopardize peace talks.

With regional stability at risk, diplomatic efforts intensified. France's President Emmanuel Macron urged restraint, while Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian called for an end to Western support for Israel, advocating for a Gaza ceasefire over retaliation.

However, Hamas' appointment of Yahya Sinwar, linked to recent attacks, further complicated peace efforts. OIC summit's resolution might hinge on US President Joe Biden's influence, according to an official quoted by CNN. Recent developments indicate that Hezbollah could also pose a threat, potentially sparking wider regional conflict.

(With inputs from agencies.)