Iran’s acting foreign minister has vowed to respond to the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh at the “right time” and in the “appropriate” manner, sparking a day of intense diplomacy in the Middle East.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) held an emergency meeting in Saudi Arabia to address Iran’s planned response to the assassination. The United States expressed hope that OIC members would urge Iran to avoid escalating the conflict.
Tensions in the region have escalated since Haniyeh’s assassination in Tehran, with Iran and its allies blaming Israel for the attack. However, Israel has not officially commented on the incident.
During the OIC meeting, Acting Iranian Foreign Minister Baqeri Ali Bagheri Kani emphasized the importance of supporting Iran’s response to the killing, stating that it is a defense of both Iran’s sovereignty and the stability of the entire region.
While the OIC condemned the attack and held Israel responsible, it did not endorse any potential military action by Iran. Concerns have been raised that Iran’s response could mirror its previous retaliation in April, when it launched over 300 missiles and drones at Israel.
OIC Chair Mamadou Tangara warned that Haniyeh’s killing could lead to a wider conflict in the region, emphasizing that it would not diminish the Palestinian cause but rather amplify it.
Saudi Arabia, for the first time, denounced the killing as a violation of Iran’s sovereignty. The US also urged all parties involved to avoid escalating the conflict, emphasizing the need for diplomacy and communication to prevent further tensions.
Diplomatic efforts have been ongoing, with world leaders engaging in discussions to prevent further escalation. French President Emmanuel Macron cautioned Iran against escalating the situation, highlighting the importance of maintaining regional stability.
As the situation continues to unfold, the international community remains on edge, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the escalating tensions in the Middle East.
