Pakistan has expressed its condemnation following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the Hamas Political Bureau Chief, in Tehran. The incident, which occurred today, has left Islamabad deeply shocked and concerned about the escalating tensions in the region.
Official Statement from Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Pakistan released a statement today, denouncing the assassination as a reckless act. The spokesperson emphasized Pakistan’s stance against terrorism in all its forms, including extrajudicial and extraterritorial killings, regardless of the motives behind them.
“Pakistan condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including extrajudicial and extraterritorial killings, irrespective of the motives,” stated the Ministry.
The statement also conveyed Pakistan’s condolences to Haniyeh’s family and the people of Palestine.
Shock and Concern Over the Timing of the Attack
The timing of the assassination has particularly alarmed Pakistan. The incident coincided with the inauguration of Iran’s new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, an event attended by several foreign dignitaries, including Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister.
“We are deeply shocked by the timing of this reckless act, coinciding with the inauguration of the President of Iran, an event attended by several foreign dignitaries, including the Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan,” the Ministry’s statement read.
Accusations Against Israel
Pakistan has directly accused Israel of orchestrating the attack. The Ministry highlighted its serious concern over what it describes as growing Israeli adventurism in the region.
“Pakistan views with serious concern the growing Israeli adventurism in the region. Its latest acts constitute a dangerous escalation in an already volatile region and undermine efforts for peace,” the statement added.
Details of the Assassination
Ismail Haniyeh, who was in Tehran to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Iran’s new president, was killed at his residence. According to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Haniyeh and one of his bodyguards were killed when their residence in Tehran was targeted.
The state-run news agency IRNA reported that the attack was carried out using an airborne guided projectile, which struck Haniyeh’s house in northern Tehran at around 2 am local time.
Broader Implications
This incident has significant implications for the already tense Middle East. The assassination of a prominent Palestinian leader on Iranian soil is likely to heighten regional tensions and complicate ongoing efforts for peace. Pakistan’s strong condemnation and concern reflect the broader apprehensions shared by many nations in the region.
As the situation develops, the international community will be closely monitoring the responses from Iran, Israel, and other key players in the Middle East. The assassination of Ismail Haniyeh is a stark reminder of the fragile and volatile nature of regional politics and the ongoing struggle for stability and peace.