Hamas Urges Iranian Restraint Toward Neighbors While Defending Right to Retaliate

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

The Palestinian Islamist group, Hamas has called on Iran to avoid striking nearby nations, even as it supported Tehran’s right to retaliate against the United States and Israel.

In an official release, the group stated, “While affirming the right of the Islamic Republic of Iran to respond to this aggression by all available means in accordance with international norms and laws, the movement calls on the brothers in Iran to avoid targeting neighbouring countries.”

The organization, which has been involved in a destructive two-year conflict with Israel in the Gaza Strip, further urged global leaders to take immediate action to end the current hostilities.

Previously, Hamas had labeled the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei which occurred at the start of the war as a “vile crime.” In a statement following his death, the group praised his legacy of assistance, noting, “He provided all forms of political, diplomatic and military support to our people, our cause, and our resistance.”