“Dangerous Escalation” Israel-Iran: Fears of Widening Conflict and Tehran’s Retaliation

A potential escalation of the conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Middle East, with Iran’s direct involvement, has raised global alarm. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei announced plans for retaliation after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, according to three informed Iranian officials reported by the New York Times.

FUNERAL FOR HAMAS CHIEF HANIYEH IN TEHRAN

The funeral for Hamas Chief Ismail Haniyeh is ongoing at the University of Tehran.

Senior Iranian officials and “Axis of Resistance” members are in attendance.pic.twitter.com/BrAI3oiVxY https://t.co/QB9PJvX8z1

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 1, 2024

Under these conditions, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated yesterday that the attacks in Beirut and Tehran represent a “dangerous escalation” in the region. He emphasized the need for the international community to work together using diplomacy to de-escalate and prevent actions that could push the entire Middle East to the brink.

In this scenario, international analysts are anxiously awaiting the outcome of Haniyeh’s funeral, held under tight security due to fears of retaliation. A large crowd gathered at Tehran University, with many holding Palestinian flags or portraits of the Hamas leader.

The atmosphere between Israel and Hamas is already so tense that the future of ceasefire talks is now unclear. A source familiar with the negotiations told CNN that Haniyeh’s assassination could complicate mediation talks, as he was integral to their progress and key in decision-making alongside Hamas’ military leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar.

#BREAKING
The funeral ceremony of #IsmailHaniyeh and his bodyguard is underway with the Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali #Khamenei leading prayer on their bodies.#Tehran #Iran pic.twitter.com/i0dxKXnXwF

— World News (@ferozwala) August 1, 2024

Flight restrictions have already been issued in Tehran due to the funeral, limiting flight movements within a 2-kilometer radius centered on Tehran University.

Among the scenarios considered by Iranian military commanders is a coordinated attack using drones and missiles on military targets in the Tel Aviv and Haifa areas, avoiding civilian targets. Another option is a combined attack from Iran and allied forces in Yemen, Syria, and Iraq for maximum impact.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader will preside over Haniyeh’s funeral, with Iranian state media reporting that Israel will pay a “heavy price” for the assassination. Netanyahu, in a new address, stated that Israel has dealt “devastating blows” to its enemies in recent days and vowed to continue military operations, warning that “difficult days are coming.”

Temporary flight restrictions have been issued in Tehran for today’s funeral of Hamas’ political leader, Ismail Haniyeh. The Civil Aviation Organization of Iran issued the notice restricting flight movements within a 2-kilometer radius centered on Tehran University. The funeral procession will take place from Tehran University to Azadi Square, with Khamenei leading the prayers.

The international community is deeply concerned about the potential for widespread conflict in the Middle East, given Iran’s declared intent to retaliate. The situation remains highly volatile and unpredictable, with global implications for peace and security.

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