White House Raises Alarm Over Middle East Escalation Risk Post Haniyeh Assassination

The White House expressed concern over potential escalation into a broader Middle East war following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran. While denying imminent conflict, U.S. officials emphasized continued efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Iran and Hamas confirmed Haniyeh's death amidst rising regional tensions.

The White House voiced concern on Wednesday over the growing risk of escalating into a Middle East war after Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Iran, prompting threats of retaliation against Israel. White House national security spokesperson John Kirby emphasized that Washington does not foresee an imminent all-out conflict but is working diligently to prevent it.

Kirby noted that recent violent events complicate the task of achieving peace, although the U.S. still sees a "viable" path to a ceasefire to end the nine-month conflict between Israel and Hamas. Despite the assassination, U.S. officials remain hopeful in pursuing the existing ceasefire deal.

The assassination of Haniyeh, confirmed by Hamas and Iran's Revolutionary Guards, occurred hours after he attended a swearing-in ceremony for Iran's new president. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government issued no claim of responsibility but vowed to respond forcefully to any attack. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking from Singapore, highlighted that a ceasefire deal is crucial to avoid wider regional conflict.

(With inputs from agencies.)