Hamas political leader Haniya was assassinated in the early hours of July 31 in the Iranian capital Tehran. Just the day before, Haniya had attended the inauguration ceremony of Iran’s new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, only to be attacked a few hours later at his temporary residence.
Both Hamas and Iran believe the attack was carried out by Israel, although Israel has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement. US Secretary of State Blinken stated that the US was not aware of the situation in advance and was not involved, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the ceasefire in Gaza. US Defense Secretary Austin refrained from commenting on the matter but mentioned that the US would protect Israel if it were attacked.
While no party has claimed responsibility for Haniya’s death, it is evident that Israel is the only entity with the motive and capability to carry out such an action.
After attending the inauguration ceremony of Iran’s new president on July 30, Haniya returned to his temporary residence with his bodyguards. Reports suggest that Haniya was staying in a secret luxury villa complex in northeast Tehran controlled and managed by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. This area serves as a reception venue for foreign dignitaries and senior officials, with multiple security checks and checkpoints required for entry.
As for the manner of the attack, there are conflicting accounts.
Hamas senior leader Hala Haya revealed some details of the attack during a press conference in Tehran on July 31. Witnesses reported that a missile struck Haniya’s room, causing an explosion that killed Haniya and his bodyguards, with severe damage to the doors, windows, and walls. A comprehensive investigation by Iran into the incident is currently awaited.
According to an article by “i24NEWS” on July 31, the attack occurred around 2 am with an Israeli-made anti-tank missile being fired near Haniya’s residence, hitting his bedroom. Iranian media claimed that Haniya’s bodyguards leaked crucial information leading to the attack.
There are also reports of a drone attack or an F-35 fighter jet launching missiles to strike Haniya’s room.
Regardless of the specifics, it is clear that this assassination was meticulously planned in advance, not a spur-of-the-moment attack.
The attack in the Iranian capital immediately following the inauguration of the new president highlights the failure of Iran to protect even the guests attending the presidential inauguration, causing a significant embarrassment. Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei ordered a direct strike against Israel in response to Haniya’s assassination on July 31.
However, after Khamenei’s directive for retaliation, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu responded the same day, warning that any aggression against Israel would come at a heavy cost but made no mention of Haniya’s death. Iran’s missile attack on Israel on April 13 exposed Iran’s military capabilities, which Israel does not take lightly, dismissing Iran’s threats of attacks.
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