Hours after Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Iran, anxious residents in Gaza expressed fears that his death could prolong the ongoing conflict in the besieged enclave.
A framed photo of Haniyeh among the ruins of his Gaza home served as a stark reminder of the war’s devastation, now in its 10th month. With little hope for a ceasefire, both Hamas and Iran have vowed revenge against Israel for the killing.
“The world should now understand that Israel doesn’t want a ceasefire or an end to the war,” said Gaza resident Salah Abu Rezik.
Haniyeh, who lived primarily in Qatar, was a prominent figure in Hamas’ international diplomacy. His home in Gaza was recently targeted by an Israeli airstrike, resulting in the deaths of three of his sons. Despite efforts by mediators from Egypt, the U.S., and Qatar, a ceasefire remains elusive.
“It’s a very sad day. It pains our hearts,” Abu Rezik, a 63-year-old from Gaza City, told Reuters.
Haniyeh led Hamas since 2017 and frequently moved between Qatar and Turkey. His assassination has heightened fears of a broader regional conflict, as Hezbollah and Israel engage in border skirmishes and the Houthi militia targets ships linked to Israel.
“If Iran doesn’t retaliate, it will appear as though it sold Haniyeh out,” said Gaza resident Rasha Ali.
Even those critical of Hamas worry that the assassination could lead to further escalation. Nadia, who declined to give her last name, expressed doubt about the prospects for a ceasefire, citing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
For Haniyeh’s former neighbors in Shati refugee camp, his death is a personal loss. Fatima Al Saati, who was asleep when the news broke, has been in tears since hearing of his demise.
Residents have witnessed numerous Hamas leaders being targeted since the group’s inception in 1987. Haniyeh’s death is seen as a significant obstacle to peace following Hamas’ deadly attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in 1,200 deaths and over 250 hostages taken.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to continue targeting Hamas leaders, while the conflict has caused more than 39,000 deaths and extensive destruction in Gaza.
“Haniyeh is not dearer than the many other martyrs,” said Rami Mohammad-Ali, a Gaza City resident.