In a groundbreaking admission, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed on Monday that Israel was responsible for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in July. This unprecedented acknowledgment comes amidst escalating regional tensions fueled by Israel's ongoing war in Gaza and conflicts involving Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen.

Speaking at an event honoring defense ministry personnel, Katz stated, "We have defeated Hamas, Hezbollah, and struck a blow to Iran’s defense and production systems." Katz also emphasized Israel’s commitment to targeting the leadership of adversarial groups, mentioning Haniyeh, Yahya Sinwar in Gaza, and Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon.

He further threatened similar actions against Houthi leaders in Yemen, suggesting Israel's strategic focus now extends to Hodeidah and Sana’a.

Haniyeh, a prominent figure in Hamas' international diplomacy, was killed in an assassination Iran immediately attributed to Israel. At the time, Israel refrained from claiming responsibility. His killing occurred as he was involved in internationally mediated talks aimed at brokering a ceasefire in Gaza.

The assassination, followed by the killing of Haniyeh’s successor Yahya Sinwar in Gaza, underscores Israel's intensifying campaign against Hamas and its allies. Sinwar was accused of orchestrating the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on Israel, which has resulted in devastating casualties on both sides.

Israel’s increasingly aggressive posture raises concerns about further destabilization in a region already on edge. Katz's public remarks mark a sharp escalation in rhetoric, with implications for Israel's relations with Iran, Lebanon, and Yemen.