Tue Dec 24 00:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Israel Confirms Assassination of Hamas Leader, Threatens Houthi Leadership
**Jerusalem, December 24, 2024** – In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed Israel’s responsibility for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh last July. This marks the first official acknowledgement of Israel’s involvement in Haniyeh’s death, which occurred in an explosion in Tehran.
Katz further issued a direct threat against the leadership of the Houthi rebel group in Yemen, stating that they would face a similar fate. He cited previous Israeli actions against leaders of Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Syrian regime as precedent. Katz explicitly vowed to strike Houthi strategic infrastructure and eliminate their leadership, referencing specific past assassinations.
This declaration follows a recent Houthi missile attack on Tel Aviv, which injured at least 16 people. Israel has already conducted three sets of airstrikes in Yemen in response to Houthi attacks and promises to intensify pressure until the missile launches cease. The Iranian-backed Houthis have launched numerous missiles and drones at Israel throughout the conflict.
The confirmation and threat have significantly heightened tensions in the region, raising concerns about further escalation.
First Piper 