Iran has a duty to avenge Haniyeh's killing, says Supreme Leader Khamenei

Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei issued a statement following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, in which he vowed "harsh punishment" for Israel.

Here is his complete statement:

“The brave and prominent Palestinian leader Ismail Haniyeh passed away at dawn last night, and the great resistance front is in mourning. The criminal and terrorist Zionist regime killed our esteemed guest in our home and has made us mournful, but it has also set the stage for its own severe retribution.

Martyr Haniyeh devoted many years to honourable struggle, ready for martyrdom, and he sacrificed his children and people for this cause. He faced the possibility of martyrdom with courage, and it is now our duty to avenge his blood for this grievous act that occurred on the soil of the Islamic Republic.

I extend my condolences to the Islamic ummah [community], the resistance front, the brave and proud nation of Palestine, and especially to the family and loved ones of martyr Haniyeh and his companion who was martyred with him. I pray to God Almighty to elevate their ranks."