Hamas urges Iran not to target neighbouring countries as war rages
Image: South China Morning Post

Hamas urges Iran not to target neighbouring countries as war rages

14 March, 2026.Iran.1 sources

Key Takeaways

  • Hamas urges Iran to refrain from targeting neighbouring countries.
  • Hamas affirms Tehran's right to defend itself against Israel and the United States.
  • Hamas urges international community to work toward halting the ongoing war immediately.

Hamas Diplomatic Appeal

The Palestinian Islamist movement affirmed Tehran's right to defend itself against Israel and the United States.

Image from South China Morning Post
South China Morning PostSouth China Morning Post

This call comes as the Middle East conflict that began on February 28 continues to escalate.

Iran had lost its supreme leader Ali Khamenei on the first day of the fighting.

Hamas's statement represents a significant diplomatic move from the group.

The group has historically maintained close ties with Iran and relied on Tehran's support.

Strategic Timing

The timing of Hamas's appeal appears strategic amid escalating regional tensions.

This follows the killing of Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei on the first day of fighting.

Image from South China Morning Post
South China Morning PostSouth China Morning Post

Hamas had previously condemned Khamenei's killing as a 'heinous crime.'

The group acknowledged Khamenei's 'long-standing support for the Palestinian movement.'

Hamas is carefully balancing its relationship with Iran against regional stability concerns.

The group is navigating complex regional dynamics while maintaining resistance principles.

International Appeal

This dual approach addresses both regional actors and the global community.

Hamas is attempting to build broader diplomatic support while managing key ally relationships.

The statement represents an unusual public diplomatic initiative for Hamas.

The group typically focuses on military operations and resistance activities.

Making direct appeals to neighboring countries and international community is uncommon.

Diplomatic Framing

The Hamas statement reflects positioning as a responsible regional actor.

The group maintains its resistance credentials while making diplomatic appeals.

Image from South China Morning Post
South China Morning PostSouth China Morning Post

Hamas affirms Iran's right to defend itself 'in accordance with international norms and laws.'

The group frames its appeal within a legal and diplomatic framework.

Hamas is balancing revolutionary rhetoric with practical diplomatic considerations.

The group is aware of the complex regional conflict's escalation risks.

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