Regional Leaders Urge Peace After Hamas Leader Assassination

Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi's visit to Iran underscores regional concerns over escalating violence following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Safadi called for peace and stability, emphasizing Jordan's commitment to the Palestinian cause and condemning Israeli aggression. At the same time, France's President Macron and Jordan's King Abdullah II stressed the need to avoid military escalation in the Middle East. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden expressed hope that Iran would stand down amid rising tensions and has increased military presence in the region to support Israel. Biden's decision not to seek re-election has emboldened Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to adopt a tougher stance against Iran, further complicating ceasefire negotiations. Diplomatic efforts continue as fears of a broader conflict involving multiple countries persist.