By OIC Warns of Potential Wider Conflict in the Middle East
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has raised concerns that the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh may escalate tensions and potentially lead to a broader conflict in the Middle East. Gambian Foreign Minister Mamadou Tangara, who currently chairs the OIC, highlighted these risks during a meeting on Wednesday.
Iran Blames Israel, Vows Defense
Iranian officials, who requested the OIC meeting along with Palestinian representatives, have blamed Israel for Haniyeh’s death. Iran’s acting Foreign Minister, Ali Bagheri, stated that if the UN Security Council fails to act against Israeli aggressions, Iran may have no choice but to defend itself.
Retaliation Threats from Hezbollah
Hezbollah, a Lebanese ally of Hamas, has also vowed to retaliate for Haniyeh’s killing and the death of its military commander Fuad Shukr, who was killed in an Israeli strike in Beirut just hours earlier.
Continued Condemnation from the OIC
This meeting is part of a series of actions by the OIC, which has been consistently condemning the violence in Gaza since Hamas’s October 7 raids in southern Israel. The conflict has led to significant casualties, with nearly 40,000 deaths, mostly civilians.
Bilateral Meetings on the Sidelines
On the sidelines of the OIC meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar held discussions with Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad. The two ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation. Dar also met with Iran’s Acting Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani to discuss regional issues and developments in the Middle East.
