Israel confirms it killed Hamas leader Haniyeh in Iran, threatens retaliation against Houthis

Israel claims responsibility for the first time for killing Hamas leader Haniyeh

In a first-ever public acknowledgment, Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed that Hamas’ top leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed last summer in Tehran. Katz revealed the information while issuing a warning to the Houthi rebel group in Yemen, signaling Israel’s readiness for similar action against their leadership.

Background on Haniyeh’s killing

Although never officially confirmed before, it was widely suspected that Israel was behind the death of Haniyeh, who perished in an explosion in Iran in July 2023. Katz’s remarks on Monday’s speech solidified those claims, stating, “Just like we did to Haniyeh, Sinwar, and Nasrallah in Tehran, Gaza, and Lebanon, we will do in Hodeida and Sanaa.” The names referenced Hamas and Hezbollah leaders killed in earlier Israeli operations.

Katz further emphasized Israel’s history of targeting its adversaries, including leaders from Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran’s allies, claiming responsibility for actions such as toppling Syria’s Bashar al-Assad and dismantling Iran’s anti-aircraft systems. He warned, “We will strike [the Houthis’] strategic infrastructure and cut off the head of the leadership.”

Israel’s multi-front conflict post-October 7

Following the unprecedented Hamas attack on October 7, tensions in the region escalated to new heights, with Israel engaged in simultaneous confrontations on multiple fronts. Key adversaries include Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, and the Houthi rebels. While Hamas and Hezbollah have taken the brunt of Israel’s military efforts, tensions with the Houthis, though less intense, remain a concern.

Recent developments include a Houthi missile striking Tel Aviv on Saturday, injuring at least 16 people. In response, Israel conducted three airstrikes in Yemen and pledged to intensify pressure on the Houthis until the missile attacks cease.

Impact of retaliation

Despite facing widespread conflict, Israel has significantly diminished the capabilities of Hamas and Hezbollah through targeted strikes, including leadership eliminations. These measures have reduced the groups’ military strength, providing Israel with the capacity for further retaliatory actions.

Katz’s statement reflects a broader strategy of preemptive and retaliatory strikes to safeguard Israeli security and deter adversaries, particularly the Houthis, who have ramped up their aggression with missile attacks targeting Israeli cities.

Looking ahead

As Israel continues to face threats across the region, its commitment to targeting key figures and strategic infrastructure in adversarial groups remains unwavering. Katz’s acknowledgment of Haniyeh’s killing signals Israel’s willingness to extend its operations to counter emerging threats, including those posed by the Houthis.

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