‘We Consider It Our Duty’: Iranian Military Commander Vows To Avenge Hamas Chief Ismail Haniyeh’s Assassination

In a recent development, a top Iranian military commander, Esmaeil Qa’ani, has expressed Tehran’s commitment to avenging the assassination of Hamas Politburo Chief Ismail Haniyeh. Qa’ani, who leads the Quds Force of Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, conveyed this message in a letter to Yahya Sinwar, the newly appointed Hamas politburo chief, as reported by Iranian media outlets. “We consider it our duty to avenge the blood of Haniyeh,” who was killed in a “bitter” incident in Iran, Qa’ani noted.
Appointment of Yahya Sinwar
Following the death of Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas announced Yahya Sinwar as his successor. Sinwar, who has led the group in the Gaza Strip since 2017, brings with him a history of resilience, having spent over two decades in Israeli prisons before his release in a prisoner exchange in 2011. Notably, Sinwar is recognized by Israel as a key figure behind the 2023 attack on the nation.
Assassination of Ismail Haniyeh
The untimely death of Ismail Haniyeh, who was slain in Tehran, has sparked tensions between Iran and Israel. Haniyeh, who was in Tehran to attend President Masoud Pezeshkian’s swearing-in ceremony,  lost his life in an attack at his residence. Iran has accused Israel of orchestrating the assassination and has vowed to deliver a severe response to the perpetrators.
Promising Retribution
Iran’s firm stance on seeking justice for the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh underscores the escalating tensions in the region. The vow of a ‘harsh and painful response’ sends a clear message of Iran’s determination to avenge the loss of the Hamas leader.