Several Arab countries are encouraging Iran to exercise restraint in responding to the assassination of Hamas’ political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, in Tehran, Iran, last week, as fears of a regional war expand.

The diplomatic blitz, led by countries allied with the United States, came as the Biden administration was trying to lower tensions in the Middle East and renew efforts to achieve a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip.

But the diplomacy also reflected concerns among some Arab countries of being dragged into a major conflict that could destabilize their economies and undermine their security.

In the past week, Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi of Jordan has twice met with senior Iranian officials in a rare visit to Tehran.

“We will not allow for our airspace or land to be used for any purpose. We are not willing to be a battlefield,” Muhannad al-Mubaidin, Jordan’s minister of government communications, said in an interview.

— The New York Times