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Militant group Hamas condemned fresh Israeli attacks against Iran on Friday, warning of escalation that could spread throughout the Middle East.
“We in Hamas express our full solidarity with the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the pro-Palestinian group said in an Arabic-language statement released through the Telegram app.
Hamas extended condolences to Iran over the reported killing of key figures including Major General Hossein Salami, commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard; Lieutenant General Mohammad Bagheri, chief of staff of the Iranian armed forces; and a number of nuclear scientists.
“The Zionist aggression against Iran is a dangerous development that underscores the existential nature of the battle with the central enemy of the [Islamic] nation. It demands a unified stance that deters the occupation and puts an end to its crimes,” the Hamas statement read.
“This represents a grave escalation that threatens to ignite the region,” it continued, adding that the “brutal aggression constitutes a blatant violation of international norms and conventions, and it reaffirms once again that the Zionist project poses an existential threat to the entire region—not just to Palestine.”
Hamas called on Islamic nations and forces to unite against Israel.
Israel is preparing for an Iranian response that could involve drone and ballistic missile attacks on civilian areas.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement late on Thursday: “Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region.”
“Israel advised us that they believe this action was necessary for its self-defense. President Trump and the Administration have taken all necessary steps to protect our forces and remain in close contact with our regional partners. Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel.”
This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.
Majdi Mohammed/AP Photo