The assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has dealt a serious blow to cease-fire negotiations to finish the struggle in Gaza, in addition to a launch deal for the Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The assault — together with the killing of a senior Hezbollah official in Beirut — has additionally heightened fears of a wider Center East battle, as Iran vowed to avenge Haniyeh’s loss of life. Haniyeh was the chief negotiator for the Palestinian militant group in cease-fire talks. Funerals for Haniyeh and senior Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr can be held Thursday in Tehran and Beirut, respectively.
