Hamas Appeals to Iran to Cease Attacks on Gulf Neighbors
The Palestinian armed group Hamas has issued a rare appeal to its key ally Iran, urging Tehran to halt its attacks on Gulf states. In a statement, the Tehran-backed organization called on its "brothers in Iran to avoid targeting neighbouring countries," emphasizing that all regional nations should cooperate "to preserve the bonds of brotherhood."
Simultaneously, Hamas, which governs the Gaza Strip, affirmed Iran's right to defend itself against ongoing attacks by the United States and Israel, which continue to strike Iranian targets.
Iranian authorities have stated that their retaliatory strikes are aimed at "American installations" located on Gulf soil rather than the neighboring countries themselves. However, numerous attacks have impacted civilian infrastructure across the region.
Hamas Expresses Concern Over Regional War
In a statement released on Saturday, Hamas expressed deep concern about the ongoing conflict in the region.
"[We are] following with deep concern the ongoing war in the region," the statement said.
The group called upon "all states and international organisations to work towards halting [the war] immediately."
To date, Iran has not publicly responded to Hamas's statement.
Impact of Iranian Strikes on Gulf States
Over the past two weeks, Tehran's retaliatory drone and missile strikes have been felt by many of its Gulf neighbors. At least 18 people have been killed across the region so far, with the majority being security personnel or foreign workers.
Casualties include six fatalities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and six in Kuwait. Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain have each reported two deaths within their borders.
Hamas's Relationship with Iran and Regional Allies
Iran remains Hamas's largest supporter in terms of funding, weaponry, and political backing. The Palestinian group previously condemned as a "heinous crime" the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in joint US-Israeli strikes on the first day of the war, 28 February.
Hamas is part of Iran's "axis of resistance," a loose coalition aimed at countering US and Israeli influence in the region.
Other regional players such as Turkey and Qatar, which have recently experienced Iranian attacks, also provide significant financial and political support to Hamas.
Ongoing Conflict and Ceasefire Status
Hamas engaged in a devastating conflict with Israel in the Gaza Strip that lasted more than two years. A US-imposed ceasefire came into effect last October, with ongoing negotiations concerning subsequent phases of the agreement.
Since October, both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of near-daily violations of the ceasefire.
According to the Hamas-run health ministry, 649 people have been killed in Gaza since the ceasefire was implemented.
