Iran’s support for Palestinian militant groups facing off against Israel in Gaza has been evident in recent meetings between their leaders and Iranian officials in Tehran. Islamic Jihad leader Ziad al-Nakhalah vowed victory over Israel in the ongoing conflict and thanked Iran for its support. The Iranian foreign minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, met with al-Nakhalah to discuss the latest developments in the war and Israel’s alleged war crimes. The leader of Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, also held talks with Iranian leadership, emphasizing the importance of a cease-fire and the return of displaced people in Gaza.
The meetings in Tehran focused on the need for continued resistance against Israel and the support from other anti-Israeli militant groups in the region, such as Yemen’s Houthis, Iraqi, and Lebanese groups. Both Islamic Jihad and Hamas leaders stressed the importance of ending Israel’s offensive in Gaza and ensuring humanitarian aid reaches the population. The United Nations Security Council recently adopted a resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire and the release of all hostages, acknowledging the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza as a result of the conflict.
The war in Gaza has resulted in significant destruction of critical infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, homes, roads, sewage systems, and the electrical grid. Local health authorities report over 32,000 Palestinians dead as a result of airstrikes and Israel’s ground offensive, with over 80% of Gaza’s population displaced and facing famine. International aid agencies have raised alarms about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, urging for immediate action to address the needs of the population. The ongoing conflict has exacerbated an already dire situation for civilians in the region.
The lack of direct intervention by Iran in the Israel-Hamas war does not diminish its support for Islamic Jihad and Hamas, both financially and politically. Iran has long considered Israel its archenemy and has played a significant role in shaping the stance of Palestinian resistance against Israel. The meetings in Tehran between Iranian officials and Palestinian militant leaders serve to strengthen ties and coordinate efforts in the face of Israeli aggression. The success of any potential negotiations with Israel is contingent on the end of the offensive in Gaza and the fulfillment of key demands by the Palestinian groups, including the withdrawal of Israeli forces.
As the conflict in Gaza continues to escalate, the international community is under pressure to take immediate action to address the humanitarian crisis and push for a lasting peace agreement. The devastation caused by the war has had a profound impact on the civilian population, with thousands dead and millions displaced. The meetings in Tehran highlight Iran’s continued support for Palestinian resistance and the need for solidarity among anti-Israeli groups in the region. The situation in Gaza remains volatile, with the prospect of a lasting peace seemingly distant as violence and destruction persist.
