The Israeli strike that killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh pushed the Middle East a lot closer to a wider war than it was before July 31st. Because Haniyeh was killed on Iranian soil during an official visit, Tehran promised military retaliation. The latter sees this as necessary to punish Israel to counterbalance the humiliation it suffered for failing to protect an official guest. But, thanks to Russia’s intervention and proactive diplomacy, clouds of a wider war have begun to disappear. Russia can play this role because of the special ties it has with Iran and the balance Moscow and Jerusalem have been able to maintain since the Syrian war. Still, Russian military support for Iran is crucial, as opposed to US support for Israel, to prevent the balance of power from tilting too much in Israel’s favour. Yet, maintaining this balance is a tough task.

The Aftermath of the Strike

Why was Israel able to kill Haniyeh? The key reason for this remains the support, both military and diplomatic, from the US. Jerusalem understands that a regional move by Iran threatening its interests will see US countermoves. Since the July 31st strike, Washington has already announced sending a squadron of its fighter jets and an aircraft carrier. Washington, as always, responded to Israel’s irresponsible behaviour with militarization. Defence Minister Austin has reportedly ordered the USS Abraham Lincoln........

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