Hamas's Position on Iran-Israel Conflict
Hamas has issued a nuanced statement regarding the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict, simultaneously urging restraint on Iran's part towards Gulf neighbors while affirming its right to retaliate against Israel.
Hamas issued a statement calling on Iran to avoid targeting neighboring Gulf countries, while simultaneously supporting Iran's right to retaliate against Israel.
The group condemned what it described as “American-Zionist aggression” against Iran. It asserted Tehran's right to respond "by all available means" in accordance with international law. Amid concerns of broader regional escalation, Hamas specifically urged Iran to refrain from striking nearby states.
The group stated that ending the conflict is in the interest of the region and the wider Islamic world. It called on states and international organizations to work towards an immediate cessation of fighting and praised efforts by several countries to prevent the conflict from escalating, prioritizing dialogue and diplomacy. Hamas also urged regional states to cooperate to stop the war and preserve their mutual ties.
Regional Dynamics and Hamas's Complex Role
The current geopolitical climate has placed Hamas in a intricate position, given its long-standing relationships with both Tehran and key actors in the Gulf region.
The ongoing US-Israeli campaign against Iran and Iran's responses have placed Hamas in a complex position, given its close ties with both Tehran and actors in the Gulf.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar commented earlier this week that Qatar expressed anger with Hamas for refusing to condemn Iranian strikes on its territory. Sa'ar also noted that Iran's capacity to financially support groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis is influencing the situation in various parts of the Middle East, highlighting a significant aspect of regional power dynamics.
Historical Cooperation: Iran's Support for Hamas
Hamas has historically received financial and political backing from Tehran, with Iran utilizing the group to advance its broader regional agenda.
In November, the IDF released what it described as evidence of Iran providing financial support to Hamas. Documents reportedly uncovered in Gaza detailed Iranian funds supplied to families of "dear martyrs" and conversations among Hamas leaders regarding shared interests with Iran. Other documents appeared to indicate that Tehran was developing strategies to provide training and military supplies to Hamas.
According to the IDF, Hamas had also expressed a desire to form a four-party alliance with Iran, Hezbollah, and Syria.
This proposed alliance aimed to coordinate efforts in media engagement, regional politics, and military tactics, with a stated goal to "launch an attack that surprises the enemy from all sides" in "the war to liberate Jerusalem."
Last year, Israel also reported uncovering an Iranian-directed Hamas network based in Turkey, which allegedly transferred significant funds to the group's leaders and members across the region.