DUBAI/BEIRUT, (Aug 13, 2024) – Iran has warned that its response to the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh will depend on the outcomes of upcoming ceasefire negotiations in Gaza. Senior Iranian officials have indicated that Tehran, in coordination with allies like Hezbollah, is prepared for direct retaliation against Israel if the talks fail or if they perceive delays or inaction from Israel.
The US has bolstered its military presence in the Middle East, deploying warships and a submarine to support Israeli defenses amid rising tensions. Diplomatic efforts are intensifying, with Western countries and the US engaging with Iran to de-escalate the situation. The US ambassador to Turkey has confirmed that Washington is seeking help from allies to convince Iran to avoid further escalation.
Iran’s foreign ministry has expressed frustration with calls for restraint, describing them as contradictory to international law. However, Iran’s mission to the UN has indicated a willingness to give the ceasefire talks a chance, stating that any potential response would be carefully timed and executed to avoid undermining the negotiations.
The ceasefire talks, scheduled to begin on Thursday in either Egypt or Qatar, could see Iran playing an indirect role. Reports suggest that Iran might send a representative to engage in behind-the-scenes discussions, although this representative would not attend the meetings directly.
Iran’s potential retaliation could be scaled down to a symbolic response if a ceasefire is reached. However, the situation remains precarious, and the next steps will depend on the progress of the talks and Israel’s actions.
