Ismail Haniyeh, the Hamas leader who was killed in Iran, was known for his tough diplomacy and rhetoric during the conflict with Israel, but was seen as relatively moderate compared to others in the group. Despite his strong language, he was involved in ceasefire talks and negotiations with Iran. Haniyeh’s sons were tragically killed in an Israeli airstrike, and he had lost several other family members in the war. Hamas, founded in 1988, has been committed to the destruction of Israel, and has engaged in various forms of resistance over the years, including sending suicide bombers into Israel. Haniyeh denied that his sons were fighters for the group and emphasized the Palestinian people’s interests above all else. He had a significant role in building up Hamas’ fighting capacity and fostering ties with Iran. Haniyeh engaged in shuttle diplomacy with various Arab governments and played a key role in Hamas’ political battles. He was a protégé of Hamas’ founder Sheikh Ahmad Yassin and advocated for the group’s entry into politics. Haniyeh, who became Palestinian prime minister after the group won parliamentary elections in 2006, continued to emphasize the importance of resistance in various forms. His death marked a significant loss for Hamas and the Palestinian cause.
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Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was known for his assertive rhetoric
