Israel assassinates Hamas politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh during his visit to Tehran

On the morning of July 31, Hamas announced the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, head of the organization's politburo. Israel launched a missile strike on the house where Haniyeh was staying during a visit to Tehran for the inauguration of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has promised "harsh punishment" for Israel, Al Jazeera reports . Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the country faces "difficult days" but is prepared for "any scenario."

The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting this evening at the request of Iran, which was supported by Russia, China and Algeria.

Israel also struck a Beirut area the day before in retaliation for Lebanon shelling a soccer field in the Golan Heights that killed 12 children.

On Wednesday, July 31, the Lebanese group Hezbollah confirmed the death of senior commander Fuad Shukr after an Israeli missile strike. In addition to him, two children were killed and 74 others were injured, the Lebanese Health Ministry said .