Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas stated in an interview with Russia’s RIA state news agency, published on Tuesday, that the assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh was intended to prolong the conflict in the Gaza Strip. Abbas emphasized, “There is no doubt that the purpose of Mr. Haniyeh’s assassination is to prolong the war and expand its scope,” and warned it would negatively impact ongoing negotiations to end the aggression and withdraw Israeli troops from Gaza.
Abbas urged Israel to cease its aggressive actions against Palestinians, adhere to international law, and implement the Arab Peace Initiative, which offers normalization of relations with Middle Eastern neighbors in exchange for the liberation of occupied Palestinian territories.
Tensions have risen after Haniyeh was assassinated in Tehran on July 31, following his attendance at Iran’s new president’s swearing-in ceremony. Hamas and Iran accused Israel of the assassination, while Tel Aviv has neither confirmed nor denied involvement.
