Iran has threatened retaliation against Israel over the assassination of Hamas official Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. This has triggered high-stakes diplomacy to prevent an Iranian strike.
An Iranian strike could escalate fighting in the monthslong Israel-Hamas war in Gaza that has killed thousands of Palestinians. It could also strain efforts to reach a ceasefire and release Israeli hostages held in Gaza.
Major powers like France, Germany and the UK are urging Iran not to carry out attacks to avoid worsening regional tensions.
The new Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has rejected calls from Western leaders and the Vatican to refrain from retaliation, but says Iran will follow the orders of Supreme Leader Khamenei.
The threat has Israel’s allies like the US preparing militarily in case of escalation. Russia has also engaged in talks with Iran to call for de-escalation.
Diplomats fear an Iranian strike could drag the region into a wider war if Israel decides to directly attack Iran in response. All sides are engaged in high-wire diplomacy to try to resolve the crisis.
Source: AP News
