Amidst escalating tensions with Israel, Iran is accused of collaborating with Hamas to smuggle weapons into Jordan and the West Bank. Israel alleges a plan to destabilize the region, while mediators struggle to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz has raised concerns over Iran's alleged involvement in smuggling weapons and funds into Jordan and the West Bank. Katz claims that Iranian Revolutionary Guard Units are collaborating with Hamas operatives in Lebanon to destabilize the region. The weapons are reportedly being smuggled into the West Bank through refugee camps, aiming to create an "Islamic terror front" under Iranian influence.
According to Katz, Iran's effective control over refugee camps in the West Bank leaves the Palestinian Authority "powerless to act." He proposes a thorough operational campaign to dismantle the terror infrastructure within these camps, viewing it as a shared interest of Israel, regional states, and the international community.
Iran's Shadow: Smuggling Weapons and Destabilizing Jordan and the West Bank
Israel's accusations come amidst heightened tensions with Iran following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Israel was immediately linked to the assassination after pledging to eliminate Hamas leaders in response to the group's attack on Israel in October 2021. Iran has threatened retaliation, raising concerns of a potential military conflict.
In related news, Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants in Lebanon have confirmed the death of Faud Shukr, their "No. 2" commander. Shukr was involved in the 1983 Beirut bombings that killed 241 U.S. military personnel. His death adds to the escalating tensions in the region.
Iran's Shadow: Smuggling Weapons and Destabilizing Jordan and the West Bank
Mediators from the United States, Qatar, and Egypt continue to push for ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas to end the ongoing conflict. A three-phase plan involving hostage release, prisoner exchange, and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza is being discussed. France, Germany, and Britain have endorsed the plan and called for the return of hostages and the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid.
Western powers have urged Iran and its allies to exercise restraint and refrain from any retaliatory attacks that could further destabilize the situation. Tensions remain high as both sides await the outcome of ceasefire negotiations and the potential response from Iran.
Iran's Shadow: Smuggling Weapons and Destabilizing Jordan and the West Bank
The Associated Press has contributed to this report, providing additional context and insights into the ongoing developments.
