اردو 
Hezbollah Launches Drone Attack on Israeli Military Base as Israel pounds Lebanon
Plumes of smoke have been seen rising above Beirut as Israel strikes city after forced evacuation orders issued for four southern neighbourhoods.
IRGC Statement on Haniyeh's Assassination and Anticipated Response
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has released a statement regarding the assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh, providing details about the method of the attack and issuing a warning of "harsh punishment" for Israel. The evolving situation has raised concerns about potential retaliation and the risk of wider regional conflict.
IRGC's Account of the Assassination
According to the IRGC, Ismail Haniyeh was killed by a "short-range projectile" launched from outside his residence in Tehran. The attack, as per the IRGC's investigations, involved a short-range projectile carrying approximately 7kg of explosive materials. The IRGC's statement has attributed the assassination to Israel and has emphasized that Israel will face "a harsh punishment in due time and place" for its alleged involvement in the attack. The IRGC has also accused the United States of supporting the "criminal government" of Israel.
Israeli and US Responses
Israel has neither confirmed nor denied its role in Haniyeh's killing, while the US has stated that it "was not aware of or involved in" the assassination. The lack of official confirmation from Israel and the US has contributed to the heightened tensions and uncertainties surrounding the situation.
Expert Analysis and Competing Narratives
Security analysts and experts have highlighted the significance of the narrative that Iran will adopt to describe the method of Haniyeh's assassination, as it will shape the potential escalation against Israel. Competing narratives, including reports of a bomb planted months ago in Haniyeh's accommodation, have raised questions about the nature of the security breach and the potential implications for future escalation.
Anticipated Iranian Response and Regional Dynamics
The IRGC's warning of "harsh punishment" for Israel has underscored concerns about potential Iranian retaliation and the risk of wider conflict. The evolving regional dynamics and the potential for broader repercussions have prompted discussions about the stability and security of the region.
Conclusion
The IRGC's statement on the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh and the warning of "harsh punishment" for Israel has heightened concerns about potential retaliation and the risk of wider regional conflict. The evolving dynamics in the Middle East and the potential for broader repercussions have prompted discussions about the need to prevent further escalation and maintain stability in the region.
