(Ynet) — Lebanese newspaper al-Mustaqbal reported Tuesday that the purpose of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Mahmoud al-Zahar’s recent visit to Iran was to define Gaza’s role in the case Israel attacks Iran’s nuclear facilities.

Hamas Prime Minister in Gaza Haniyeh visited Tehran last February while al-Zahar arrived at the Iranian capital earlier this month. According to the report, the parties discussed the introduction of missiles into the Gaza Strip in preparation for a conflict with Israel, which would enable Hamas to retaliate with rocket fire. Hamas has previously declared it will not take part in a conflict between Israel and Iran.

According to the report, Iran pledged to increase financial aid to Gaza and as a first step provided Hamas with $33 million immediately after Haniyeh’s visit. Sources told al-Mustaqbal that Iran is working to sabotage Palestinian reconciliation efforts for fear of its effect on the Gaza Strip. Fatah has made a similar claim.