More than 20 arrested in Iran for Hamas leader's murder: NYT
Photo: More than 20 people have been arrested in Iran over the assassination of a Hamas leader (Getty Images)
In Iran, more than 20 people have been arrested on suspicion of involvement in the murder of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Among those arrested are high-ranking intelligence officers, military officials, and staff members from a military boarding house in Tehran, reports The New York Times.
The publication notes that the assassination of the Hamas leader following the inauguration of Iran's new president, coupled with the harsh response, indicates that it was a devastating security failure for Iran's leadership.
According to two Iranian officials, a specialized intelligence unit of the Revolutionary Guards responsible for espionage has taken over the investigation and is searching for suspects. More than 20 people have been arrested as part of this operation.
The news of the extensive arrests came after it was announced that the scope and details of Haniyeh's murder are under investigation.
"The intensity and scope of the Guards’ investigation reveal the degree to which the assassination has shocked and rattled the country’s leadership," the report states.
Additionally, Haniyeh's proximity to Iran's Supreme Leader has raised concerns.
Hamas leader's murder
On July 31, it was reported that Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Tehran.
Later, it was discovered that a bomb had been planted in the building where Haniyeh was staying. The Telegraph reported that Haniyeh's residence was mined by Iranian operatives recruited by Mossad.
Iran has threatened to respond to Haniyeh's murder. According to CNN, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken sent a signal to Iran through Qatar to avoid escalation in the Middle East.
