The Iranian Foreign Ministry has reiterated its stance on the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the head of Hamas, asserting that it views this act as a direct attack on Iran's sovereignty. During a weekly press conference, Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani emphasized that Iran's right to respond to this aggression is not contingent upon the ongoing ceasefire negotiations in Gaza. He stated that while Iran does not wish to escalate tensions in the region, it reserves the right to retaliate against Israel at a time of its choosing.
Kanaani criticized Western nations for their silence on Haniyeh's assassination and accused them of complicity in Israel's actions in Gaza. He pointed out that calls from the United States and European countries for Iran to retract its threats against Israel are unwarranted, as Iran does not seek permission to defend its sovereignty. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian supported this view, declaring that responding to aggression is a legitimate right of all nations and essential for halting ongoing violence.
The Iranian government has been in communication with the United States via mediators, but it remains firm in its position that it will not be deterred by external pressures. Kanaani's comments reflect a broader sentiment within Iran that emphasizes the importance of national sovereignty and the right to respond to perceived threats, positioning Iran as a key player in the ongoing conflict involving Hamas and Israel.
- This situation comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza, where the humanitarian crisis has escalated due to ongoing military actions. The Iranian leadership's rhetoric underscores its commitment to supporting Hamas and resisting Israeli actions, which they view as part of a broader struggle against Western imperialism in the region. Iran's firm stance could further complicate diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire and restoring stability in Gaza.
