Abbas Condemns Assassination of Hamas Leader Amid Rising Gaza Tensions

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has condemned the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, describing it as an attempt to prolong the Gaza conflict. Abbas announced plans to discuss the crisis with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Tensions between Israel and Hamas are escalating, raising fears of a broader Middle East war.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has condemned the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, labeling it as a deliberate effort to extend the Gaza conflict. Speaking to Russia's state RIA news agency, Abbas criticized the killing as a 'cowardly act and a dangerous development in Israeli politics.'

Abbas revealed plans to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow from Aug. 12-14 to discuss the ongoing crisis. He warned that the assassination would negatively impact negotiations aimed at ceasing hostilities and withdrawing Israeli troops from Gaza.

Haniyeh, assassinated in Tehran, had been crucial in Hamas' international diplomacy and ceasefire talks. Iran has accused Israel of the killing. Meanwhile, Russia has condemned the act and called for regional stability, highlighting the urgent need for peace discussions.