EU criticizes killing of Haniyeh without trial
The political leader of Hamas is assassinated in Tehran. Criticism of Haniyeh's killing comes from Brussels. An EU spokesperson said the EU rejects extrajudicial executions and supports the rule of law. They also warned of further escalation in the Middle East.
The EU has expressed strong criticism of the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of the Islamic Hamas. A spokesperson for EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the EU rejects extrajudicial executions in principle and supports the rule of law.
This stance remains unchanged despite the fact that the prosecutor at the International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Haniyeh for war crimes, and the EU has designated Hamas as a terrorist organization. "In light of the evolving situation, we repeat the EU's call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid any further escalation, as no country or nation can benefit from further escalation in the Middle East and the region," the spokesperson said.
Haniyeh was the target of an aerial attack in Tehran in the early hours of Wednesday. Both Hamas and Iran blame their arch-foe Israel, but Israel has not officially responded to the accusations. The exact cause of Haniyeh's death remains unclear, with experts suggesting either an aerial or missile strike.
The attack took place at a "special residence" in north Tehran, reportedly in the former Persian Shah's palace, which is usually heavily guarded. Haniyeh was in Tehran to attend the inauguration of new Iranian President Massoud Peschkan.
The EU firmly condemns the alleged extrajudicial execution of Haniyeh, as stated by The Commission, and reiterates its commitment to upholding the rule of law and opposing such actions. Regardless of the ongoing legal proceedings against Haniyeh, The Commission emphasizes the necessity for peace and deterrence of any escalation in the Middle East.
