Tensions in the Middle East are at a critical point following the assassination of former Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Haniyeh was killed by a remotely detonated explosive during a visit for the Iranian president’s inauguration. Although Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement, the U.S. has responded by deploying warships and a submarine to the region in support of Israel.

Iranian officials have suggested that only a ceasefire in Gaza might prevent retaliation, a stance also mentioned by President Joe Biden. However, this seems unlikely given the current situation. The killing of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr just days before Haniyeh’s death has further inflamed tensions, creating a highly volatile environment with the potential for a broader Middle Eastern conflict. The region is on edge, with the risk of escalation looming large

Dr Ali Mamouri is a research fellow at Deakin University and Iraq pulse editor at Al-Monitor, will chat more about this topic.