Punishing Israel, Gaza Truce Among Priorities : UN Mission

According to SAEDNEWS, On Wednesday, the Iranian Mission to the United Nations in New York made headlines with a firm statement regarding the nation’s stance on Israel's recent actions, which they termed “aggression” against Iran's sovereignty. Responding to inquiries about the potential for Iran to reconsider its plans for retaliation should Hamas reach a ceasefire agreement with Israel, the mission underscored its commitment to two clear priorities.

The statement emphasized Iran’s dual approach: establishing a lasting ceasefire in Gaza while holding Israel accountable for its actions. They articulated their determination to ensure the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Palestinian territories and to deliver consequences for the aggression that led to the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the long-time political leader of Hamas. Haniyeh was killed in a targeted Israeli strike on July 31, during a visit to attend the inauguration of Iran's new President, Masoud Pezeshkian.

Iranian officials, both political and military, have made it unequivocally clear that they will seek retribution for Haniyeh's death when deemed appropriate. Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, highlighted this sentiment in a message of condolence to the Palestinian people. He stated that it is Iran's duty to seek vengeance for the assassination carried out on its soil, asserting, “The criminal and terrorist Zionist regime martyred our beloved guest inside our house and made us mournful, but it paved the way for a harsh punishment to be imposed on it."

In his own remarks, President Pezeshkian reinforced this commitment, declaring that Iran would fiercely protect its territorial integrity and national honor, warning that the Zionist regime would soon face the consequences of its "cowardly and terrorist actions."

Meanwhile, in the wake of Haniyeh’s killing, Hamas has appointed Yahya al-Sinwar as its new political leader. Israel believes that Sinwar played a key role in orchestrating the recent Al-Aqsa Storm Operation on October 7. This change in leadership has been met with enthusiasm from Hamas officials and various Palestinian resistance factions, as Sinwar’s experience and resilience, particularly after spending 22 years in Israeli custody, are seen as assets in the ongoing struggle against Israeli policies.

As the situation unfolds, Iran's declared intentions serve as a reminder of the complexities at play within the region. With a steadfast commitment to both ceasefire negotiations and potential retaliation, Iran’s actions in the coming weeks will be closely scrutinized both regionally and globally. The stakes are high as the balance of power remains a focal point of conflict and diplomatic engagement in the Middle East.