Iran Denies Allegations of Involvement in Al-Aqsa Flood Operation
Iran's mission to the United Nations has categorically denied allegations linking Tehran to the planning of the Al-Aqsa Flood operation, which was launched by Hamas against Israel on October 7, 2023. In response to documents leaked by Israel to the New York Times, Iran's UN Ambassador Amir Saeed Iravani described the accusations as unfounded and part of a broader campaign of misinformation by the Israeli government. He stated, "The claims linking this operation to Iran or Hezbollah are considered slander and fabrication of documents."
Israeli Claims and Hamas's Position
The New York Times reported that it had access to minutes from secret meetings of Hamas, which the Israeli army claims to have intercepted. These documents allegedly detail the planning of the October 7 attack, including discussions led by Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar about involving Iran and Hezbollah in the operation. However, Hamas officials based in Doha have publicly stated they had no prior knowledge of the attack's planning, asserting that the operation was solely managed by Hamas's military wing in Gaza.
Iran's Response to Israeli Accusations
In its statement, the Iranian mission condemned Israel as a "criminal and lying entity," emphasizing that the allegations are part of a long-standing pattern of deceit by the Israeli government. The Iranian representative reiterated that any claims suggesting Iranian involvement in the Al-Aqsa Flood operation lack credibility and are merely attempts to discredit Tehran. This ongoing exchange highlights the tension between Iran and Israel amidst the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.