Hamas urges Iran to avoid targeting neighbours amid regional tensions

GAZA CITY: The Palestinian resistance group Hamas on Saturday issued a public appeal to Iran, urging its ally to refrain from targeting neighbouring countries as part of its ongoing confrontation with Israel and the United States.

In a statement released on Saturday, Hamas affirmed Iran’s right to defend itself in response to what it described as “Zionist aggression.” The group stated, “While affirming the right of the Islamic Republic of Iran to respond to this aggression by all available means in accordance with international norms and laws, the movement calls on the brothers in Iran to avoid targeting neighbouring countries.” This marks the first time Hamas has made such a direct and public request to Tehran.

Hamas also called on the international community to take urgent action to halt the escalating conflict that has engulfed the Middle East since late February. The group’s statement emphasized the need for immediate steps to end the ongoing war, which began on February 28 and has since caused widespread devastation in the region.

The appeal comes as Iran faces increasing pressure and military challenges from both Israel and the United States. Despite these challenges, Hamas described Iran’s struggle as “righteous,” but cautioned against actions that could further destabilize neighbouring countries.

The statement reflects growing concerns about the potential for the conflict to expand beyond its current borders, drawing in additional countries and heightening instability across the Middle East. Hamas’s call for restraint highlights the delicate balance regional actors are seeking to maintain amid ongoing hostilities.

There was no immediate response from Iranian officials to Hamas’s statement at the time of reporting.