Tehran, Iran – The Iranian news agency Tasnim has confirmed the death of Major General Hossein Salami, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), following an Israeli airstrike. The attack marks a significant escalation in tensions between Iran and Israel, which have been engaged in a shadow war across the Middle East.
According to Tasnim, General Salami was killed in a targeted strike, though the exact location and circumstances of the attack remain unclear. The IRGC has vowed retaliation, calling the strike a “cowardly act of aggression” by the “Zionist regime.”
Ahmad Vahidi Appointed Interim IRGC Chief
In the wake of Salami’s death, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has appointed Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi as the interim commander-in-chief of the IRGC. Vahidi, a former defense minister and senior IRGC Quds Force commander, is known for his hardline stance against Israel and the West.
Vahidi has been a key figure in Iran’s military and intelligence operations abroad, including alleged involvement in attacks against Israeli and U.S. targets. His appointment signals Tehran’s intent to maintain a confrontational posture in response to the killing of Salami.
Regional and Global Reactions
The assassination of General Salami has drawn sharp reactions across the region:
- Hezbollah, Iran’s Lebanese ally, condemned the strike and pledged solidarity with Tehran.
- Hamas and Islamic Jihad issued statements mourning Salami and vowing continued resistance against Israel.
- The U.S. State Department declined to comment directly but reiterated support for Israel’s right to self-defense.
- Russia and China called for restraint, warning of further destabilization in the Middle East.
Escalating Iran-Israel Conflict
General Salami’s death comes amid heightened hostilities between Iran and Israel, including suspected Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, assassinations of scientists, and cyberattacks. Iran has also been accused of supplying drones and missiles to proxy groups targeting Israel.
Analysts warn that Salami’s killing could trigger direct military confrontation, with Iran likely to respond through its regional proxies or direct strikes on Israeli interests.
What’s Next?
With General Vahidi now at the helm of the IRGC, Iran is expected to pursue a strategy of calculated retaliation. Possible responses could include:
- Increased attacks by Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen.
- Cyberattacks on Israeli infrastructure.
- Attempts to target Israeli officials abroad.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation, fearing a wider regional war. As both sides brace for further escalation, the Middle East remains on edge.
Updates to follow as the situation develops.
Reporter
