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| File/photo/ Iran government |
Israel has announced the elimination of a senior Iranian commander, Saeed Izadi, who allegedly played a significant role in orchestrating Hamas's attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that Izadi was killed in a strike on an apartment in Qom, south of Tehran, describing the operation as a crucial development in the ongoing conflict.
IDF chief Eyal Zamir added that Izadi bore responsibility for the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of many others to Gaza, labeling the operation a 'remarkable intelligence ' and operational success.
While Iran has yet to confirm Izadi's death and has previously denied any involvement in the Hamas attack, the IDF also claimed to have targeted another Quds Force commander, Behnam Shahriyari, in a drone strike in western Iran on the same day.
Shahriyari was reportedly in charge of delivering missiles and rockets to Iran's allied groups throughout the region, such as Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, according to the IDF. If Israeli assertions are validated, the killings of Izadi and Shahriyari would signify a significant setback for the IRGC.
These incidents occur as the conflict between Israel and Iran enters its ninth day, with both sides intensifying their military actions. Iran has accused Israel of striking a nuclear facility near Isfahan, while Israel claims it targeted " military assets" in southwestern Iran, noting at least one incident involving Iranian drones breaching its airspace.
Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned in Istanbul that any U.S. involvement in the conflict would be extremely perilous. He also said that Iran would not resume discussions regarding its nuclear program until Israel's attacks ceased.
Donald Trump has hinted at potential U.S. military action against Iran, indicating that Tehran has a limited timeframe to negotiate on its nuclear ambitions. Since the conflict erupted on June 13, Iranian officials report at least 430 fatalities, including military leaders, and 3,500 injuries, while a human rights organization estimates the death toll to be around 657.