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Iran, Hamas seek benefits of mutual military support

As the United States becomes more involved in the Middle East, its actions are driving Hamas and Tehran closer.

TEHRAN, IRAN - JULY 22: (----EDITORIAL USE ONLY  MANDATORY CREDIT - "IRANIAN SUPREME LEADER PRESS OFFICE / HANDOUT" - NO MARKETING NO ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS - DISTRIBUTED AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS----) Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei (2nd R) meets Saleh al-Arouri (3rd R), deputy leader of Hamas, in Tehran, Iran on July 22, 2019. (Photo by IRANIAN SUPREME LEADER PRESS OFFICE / HANDOUT/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Supreme Leader of Iran Ali Khamenei (2nd R) meets Saleh al-Arouri (3rd R), deputy leader of Hamas, in Tehran, Iran, July 22, 2019. — IRANIAN SUPREME LEADER PRESS OFFICE / HANDOUT/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Iran and Hamas are strengthening their reconciliation, one that could greatly benefit both parties as tensions rise between Tehran and Washington, and Hamas’ concern grows over the pending US peace proposal for the Middle East. 

Both parties are trying to leave behind what happened between them during the Syrian civil war, as Iran supported Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, and the Hamas military wing, Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, directly fought Assad's forces and Iran-backed militant groups in Syria.

After eight years of strained relations, Tehran and Hamas need each other more than ever now. 

This year, Iran has been strengthening its ties with Hamas and has welcomed Hamas initiatives in this regard.

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