As US-Iran conflict heats up, Hamas finesses Tehran’s expectations
The escalation of tensions between Iran and the United States is threatening to force Hamas to take action in support of Tehran, endangering the chances for an arrangement with Israel.
Palestinian factions in the Gaza Strip erected their own mourning tent during the Jan. 4 funeral march for assassinated Quds Force head Qasem Soleimani. Maps of the United States and Israel were placed on the floor at the entrance to the tent for visitors to step on as they entered. Hamas and Islamic Jihad, which viewed Soleimani as a leader who encouraged, supported and directed them in their struggle against the “Zionist enemy,” published mourning announcements emphasizing his central role in advancing the Palestinian resistance.
Israel warned Hamas and Islamic Jihad via Egypt not attack Israel and so far there have been no violent reactions to Soleimani's elimination.
