Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh Slain in Tehran: Iran Vows Severe Revenge

The Revolutionary Guards of Iran reported that Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Tehran by a short-range projectile. Tensions have escalated, with Iran blaming Israel for the assassination and vowing severe retribution. The incident has raised concerns of direct conflict between Iran and Israel amidst ongoing regional turmoil.

The Revolutionary Guards of Iran announced on Saturday that Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of the Palestinian militant group Hamas, was killed in Tehran by a short-range projectile. The attack, which involved a warhead weighing approximately 7 kg, has intensified regional tensions.

Wednesday's assassination has heightened fears of a direct conflict between Tehran and Israel, described as its arch-enemy, in a region already destabilized by Israel's war in Gaza and escalating violence in Lebanon. The Guards vowed a severe reprisal at a suitable time and place and blamed Israel for Haniyeh's death.

Iran and Hamas have pointed fingers at Israel for the strike that occurred shortly after Haniyeh attended Iran's new president's inauguration. Reports suggest a bomb, covertly transported two months ago, was responsible for the explosion at the guesthouse where Haniyeh stayed. Israeli officials have not yet claimed responsibility for the attack. Iran also accused the U.S. government of supporting the operation, which happened in a northern Tehran suburb. Haniyeh was laid to rest in Qatar on Friday.

(With inputs from agencies.)