Israel`s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, recently claimed responsibility for the assassination of former Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Tehran on July 30. Haniyeh, a key figure in Hamas and a major diplomatic face of the group, was in Tehran for the swearing-in ceremony of Iran’s new president. His death was initially blamed on Israel by Iran, but Israel had not confirmed it until now. Haniyeh played a significant role in strengthening Hamas` military capabilities, especially through ties with Iran. Earlier, Israel airstrikes killed three of his sons in April. Israeli forces have targeted top leaders from Hamas, Hezbollah, and Houthi groups during the ongoing Middle East conflict.