Iran expressed its intention to avoid disrupting Gaza cease-fire talks with its planned retaliation against Israel following the assassination of Hamas political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh last month. Iran's permanent mission to the UN emphasized that achieving a permanent cease-fire in Gaza remains a priority, indicating that any agreement accepted by Hamas would also be acceptable to Tehran. The Iranian government condemned Haniyeh's assassination in Tehran as a violation of its national security and sovereignty. While Iran asserted its right to self-defense, it stressed that it hopes its response would not hinder ongoing cease-fire efforts. This statement comes as tensions escalate following the assassination of Haniyeh on July 31 and earlier Israeli airstrikes in Beirut that killed Hezbollah commander Fouad Shukr. Efforts to resume cease-fire and hostage exchange talks between Israel and Hamas are set to take place next week in Doha or Cairo, mediated by leaders from Egypt, Qatar, and the US. — Agencies
