I ran has firmly rejected international calls to refrain from retaliatory attacks against Israel following the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, as the U.S. and its allies work to prevent a broader conflict in the Middle East.
"Iran is determined to defend its national security," said Nasser Kanaani, the Iranian foreign ministry spokesman, on Tuesday. Kanaani dismissed Western efforts to de-escalate tensions, accusing Israel of violating Iran's "sovereignty and territorial integrity" by killing Haniyeh in Tehran. He criticized the calls for Iran to stand down, stating they "lack political logic" and amount to "open and practical support for the source of international crimes and terrorism in the region."
These remarks come after a joint statement from the U.S. and several European nations, including the U.K., France, Germany, and Italy, urging Iran and its allies to "stand down" from threats of a military attack against Israel amid growing concerns that a direct assault may be imminent.
In response to these fears, the U.S. has dispatched a guided missile submarine to the Middle East and expedited the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group, reaffirming Washington’s commitment to defending Israel from possible retaliation. The White House expressed concerns that an attack could occur this week, prompting increased military preparedness in the region.
Haniyeh was assassinated last month at a residence in Tehran after attending the inauguration of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Both Iran and Hamas have blamed Israel for the killing. While Israel has not officially commented, it is widely believed to have carried out the attack.
The situation has also heightened concerns that Hezbollah, a militant group backed by Iran, might retaliate for the killing of senior commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut, which occurred just hours before Haniyeh’s assassination. This has fueled fears of an all-out war, potentially undermining efforts to establish a cease-fire in Gaza and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.
The U.K., France, and Germany issued a joint statement warning Iran and its proxies that they would "bear responsibility for actions that jeopardize the opportunity for peace and stability" in the region, a statement that sparked outrage among Iranian officials.
Kanaani dismissed the warning as "shameless," questioning why these countries did not condemn Israel's actions. Meanwhile, Israel Defense Forces spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said Israel is closely monitoring Hezbollah and Iran, and is prepared for potential escalation.
In light of these developments, several countries have advised airlines to avoid airspace in the region and have urged their citizens to leave parts of the Middle East.
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