Hamas Chief Ismail Haniyeh Killed in Tehran Attack, Group Confirms
Tehran Incident: Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh Killed in Targeted Strike
31.07.2024: Hamas Chief Ismail Haniyeh was killed in a “treacherous Zionist attack on his residence in Tehran” yesterday, the Palestinian group confirmed. An investigation is underway to uncover more details about the attack.
Details of the Attack: Haniyeh, along with one of his bodyguards, was killed when their residence was targeted in the Iranian capital. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning, shortly after Haniyeh attended the swearing-in ceremony of Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian.
Official Statements: “Brother, leader, mujahid Ismail Haniyeh, the head of the movement, died in a Zionist strike on his headquarters in Tehran after he participated in the inauguration of the new Iranian president,” read the statement from Hamas. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards also confirmed the attack, stating that Haniyeh’s residence was “hit” and he was killed along with his bodyguard.
Israeli Response: The Israeli army has not immediately responded to Haniyeh’s killing. However, Israel had previously vowed to target Haniyeh and dismantle Hamas following the October 7 attack that resulted in the deaths of 1,195 people, mostly civilians.
Casualties and Background: Israel’s retaliatory military campaign in Gaza has reportedly killed at least 39,400 people, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory. Haniyeh, elected head of the Hamas political bureau in 2017, succeeded Khaled Meshaal. Known for his pragmatic approach, Haniyeh lived in exile, splitting his time between Turkey and Qatar, and maintained diplomatic relations with various Palestinian factions and international leaders.
Haniyeh’s Legacy: Haniyeh joined Hamas in 1987 during the first Palestinian intifada against Israeli occupation. Throughout his leadership, he engaged in diplomatic missions to Iran and Turkey, strengthening ties with both nations.