In an unexpected turn of events, Iran's decision to exercise caution in responding to recent assassinations has sparked internal discord among its regional allies. According to a report by the Kuwaiti newspaper al Jarida on Wednesday, the call for restraint has angered prominent groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas. This development has led to a significant rift in Tehran, with heated meetings and verbal clashes between representatives of Iran's regional allies and the Revolutionary Guard leadership.

The report highlights that Iran, in light of the assassination of high-ranking Hezbollah terrorist Fuad Shukr and Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, has signaled a willingness to delay its response. However, this decision has not been well-received by Iran's allies. A source within the Iranian Revolutionary Guard's Quds Force revealed that a meeting took place in Tehran on Sunday, attended by representatives from various regional factions including Hezbollah, Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Iraqi groups, and the Houthis. The purpose of the meeting was to coordinate a response to Israel.

During the meeting, Revolutionary Guard representatives urged the allies to exercise patience, at least until the conclusion of hostage negotiations in Gaza, which are scheduled to end on Thursday. However, the allies expressed their desire to launch an immediate assault on Israel, even if it meant confronting those who defend it, including American forces in the region. The source noted that the Iranian delegation cautioned against such aggressive actions, emphasizing that they would play into Israel's hands.

The report further reveals that the proposed strategy from the Iranian side was a "tit-for-tat" approach. This strategy suggested that any assassination of resistance figures should be met with corresponding assassinations of Israeli leaders. The Hamas representative reportedly demanded the assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in retaliation for Haniyeh's death. The representative warned that Hamas would not support the Iranian proposal otherwise.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah representatives expressed concerns about the potential risks of continued restraint. They feared that some of their members might act independently and carry out uncoordinated attacks. Following the attack on Beirut's southern suburbs, Hezbollah insisted that it was time to retaliate by targeting Haifa and Tel Aviv.

The source also disclosed Tehran's growing apprehension that its allies might launch attacks without coordinating with Iran. This concern stems from the possibility of having to deal with the consequences, similar to what occurred with Hamas on October 7, but potentially on a more dangerous scale.

The internal strife within Iran's regional alliances highlights the complex dynamics of the Middle East. The tension between restraint and immediate retaliation against Israel reveals the delicate balance of power in the region. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this internal discord will impact Iran's relationships with its allies and its stance against Israel.