Iran reaffirms support for Hamas as Trump pushes to disarm terror group
Iran has publicly reaffirmed its backing of Hamas at a moment when President Donald Trump is promoting a landmark agreement intended to disarm the Palestinian terrorist group in Gaza. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian telephoned Hamas's newly elected leader to congratulate him and pledge Tehran's continued support for the group's cause, a signal that risks undermining the disarmament push and highlights ongoing regional tension between Iran-backed factions and the US-brokered peace effort.
Pezeshkian's call was made to Khalil al-Hayya following his election as head of Hamas, with Hamas itself confirming the exchange on Monday. Trump has meanwhile told reporters at a Cabinet meeting at Camp David that Israel is "very happy" with the deal he brokered to strip Hamas of its weapons and power in Gaza, framing it as a major step towards stabilising the territory. Iran's renewed pledge of support comes against a wider backdrop of regional friction, including recent US-Iran hostilities and concerns raised by analysts about Tehran's growing influence.
- Iran's president pledges continued support to Hamas's new leader.
- Trump promotes deal to disarm Hamas in Gaza.
- Move risks complicating US-brokered Gaza disarmament efforts.