Israel recognizes and even accepts that the assassination of an idea is impossible, acknowledging that Hamas represents an idea that will not vanish through the martyrdom of its leaders, from the first to the last.
Ismail Haniyeh, known for his calm demeanour and tactful speech, rose from the back rows to the forefront through his efforts and distinctive leadership qualities. It is not an exaggeration to say that he symbolizes moderation and flexibility in the Palestinian context. However, the assassination gun or its explosive packaging knows who it targets and who judges.
Today, it is Ismail Haniyeh, and before him, a convoy of leaders throughout history who were assassinated in their homeland and in distant lands. The most notable among them are the master of martyrs Yasser Arafat, Ahmed Yassin, Abu Ali Mustafa, and before them Abu Jihad. This convoy continues with many thousands across all ranks and realities.
The assassination pistol, device, drone, or poison does not reach its target randomly but at a deliberate time. It is time for the killers to halt efforts towards a truce or exchange.
Netanyahu has decided to continue using the pistol, the packaging, and the aircraft whenever possible. He employs all means available to him, with American support behind, in front, and around him.
It is the capital of the axis of resistance and the leader of its factions and arms. The message is clear: there is no safe place for those who hold the idea, and no security for any leader who believes they are safe as soon as they enter the guide's house.
Tehran, the site of the assassination crime, combines material, moral, military, and tactical considerations. The first warning was the assassination of its scholars in their homes. The second was the killing of their military icon, martyr Qassem Soleimani. The subsequent warning involved the destruction of the consulate in Damascus. These actions targeted the Iranian body directly, while presenting martyrs on every land they stand on.
Whenever news of this magnitude breaks, we sincerely ask those grieving the loss of leaders, symbols, sons, fathers, brothers, and even those taking the Tawji exam in Gaza: How will the response be? How will deterrence manifest?
No answer can be predicted in advance. The field remains open to action and reaction, and only the field will provide answers.
However, the truth remains steadfast. It may advance or delay, but it is always the answer. That is, Israel may succeed in killing, assassinating, and destroying, but it will never succeed in assassinating the cause of a people united in their goal of freedom and independence.
May God have mercy on Abu Al-Abd, Abu Ammar, Abu Ali Mustafa, and all those who preceded and followed them in the Palestinian national struggle. May God have mercy on all martyrs.
Yousef Ramadan is the Ambassador of Palestine to Bangladesh
