Assassination of Hamas Leader Sparks Global Tensions

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Tehran, with Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard announcing the news. Responsibility remains unclaimed, though suspicion falls on Israel, which has vowed to target Hamas leaders following their October attack. The event complicates efforts by U.S. President Biden to negotiate a cease-fire and hostage release.

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Tehran, Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard said early Wednesday. No one immediately claimed responsibility for the assassination, but suspicion fell on Israel, which has vowed to kill Haniyeh and other Hamas leaders after their Oct. 7 attack on Israel that resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people and some 250 hostages taken.

Haniyeh was visiting Tehran to attend Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's swearing-in ceremony. Iran provided no details on how Haniyeh was killed, and the Guard confirmed that the attack is under investigation.

This assassination coincides with a critical moment as U.S. President Joe Biden's administration strives to mediate a cease-fire and hostage release agreement between Hamas and Israel. Reactions from Palestinian leaders highlight the tensions, with condemnations labeling the act as cowardly, and Hamas vowing to respond.

(With inputs from agencies.)