Tensions in the Middle East have reached a boiling point after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran. The incident has sparked a wave of violence and retaliation, with Iran vowing to “seek revenge” against Israel.
The UN Security Council has convened an emergency meeting to address the crisis, amid fears that the killings of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders could end Gaza truce talks and lead to a wider war.
The US has publicly stated its goals are a ceasefire in Gaza and regional de-escalation, but its ally Israel’s actions make it challenging. The Israeli military has killed a top Hezbollah commander in an airstrike, further escalating the situation.
In a separate incident, two Al-Jazeera journalists were killed in an Israeli strike in Gaza, sparking international condemnation. A UN report has also found that Palestinians detained by Israeli authorities faced torture and mistreatment.
The region is on high alert, with many fearing a broader conflict. Diplomatic efforts are underway to de-escalate the situation, but the path forward remains uncertain.