White House: The U.S. Has No 'Exclusive Information' on the Death of Hamas Political Leader in Tehran

The Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council of the White House stated on Wednesday regarding the death of Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas in Tehran, that the U.S. has no 'exclusive information' on this matter and is not in a position to confirm related reports. John Kirby added in response to reporters' questions in Washington, 'I have seen the statement released by Hamas, but I cannot confirm or validate it. We have no independent information, and I cannot speak on it.' When asked about the impact of this event on ceasefire negotiations in Gaza, he stated that it is still too early to know what effect these reports will have, saying, 'We have a team in the region working with their counterparts to advance ceasefire negotiations, as this issue is very important. This work has always been complex and becomes more complicated with each passing day. Our job is to manage risks in the region.' This senior White House official emphasized that the United States does not believe that escalating tensions are inevitable and that there are no signs of imminent escalation, but they are closely monitoring the situation. John Kirby also did not comment on whether the White House has requested restraint from Israel. The U.S. has supported Israel's approach in the Gaza ceasefire negotiations. Lindsey Graham stated: 'Hezbollah and the Islamic Republic are one; Israel has the right to target the masterminds of terrorism anywhere and anytime.' The reactions continue regarding the death of Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran; he was described as an 'international terrorist' who came to the 'terrorists' party.' Prince Reza Pahlavi remarked: 'Ismail Haniyeh was a major criminal who should never have set foot on Iranian soil.'