Analysis of statements and actions reported in international news media

Assassination of Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh on July 31 Nearly Foiled by Broken AC and Remote-Controlled Bomb in Tehran

Dec 28, 2024, 11:27 PM

Reports indicate that the assassination attempt on Ismail Haniyeh, the former Hamas leader, in Tehran nearly failed due to a malfunctioning air conditioning unit in his hotel room. According to Israeli Channel 12, the operation had been planned for months, involving a remote-controlled bomb placed in Haniyeh's guesthouse. The plan was jeopardized when the air conditioning broke down, prompting Haniyeh to leave his room for an extended period. Fortunately for the operatives, hotel staff managed to repair the air conditioning, allowing Haniyeh to return to the room just before the explosive was detonated. This incident highlights the precarious nature of the operation, which was reportedly timed to avoid further embarrassment for Iran following the inauguration of a new president. The assassination took place on July 31, and initial reports had mistakenly suggested that an Israeli missile was responsible for Haniyeh's death.