Iran’s top army official has promised a “decisive” retaliation after Israeli airstrikes killed key security figures, including Ali Larijani. The strikes have sparked deadly Iranian missile attacks on Israel, raising fears of wider regional conflict.
Iranian army chief Amir Hatami issued a statement condemning the Israeli strike that killed Ali Larijani, calling it a crime by the “bloodthirsty Zionist regime” and the United States.
“At the appropriate time and place, a decisive, deterrent, and regretful response will be given to the criminal America and the bloodthirsty Zionist regime,” Hatami said.
He added that Larijani and other “martyrs will be avenged.”
Deaths of key Iranian figures
The Israeli airstrikes reportedly targeted a secret location in Tehran. Ali Larijani, Iran’s powerful political and security figure, was killed along with Gholam Reza Soleimani, head of Iran’s Basij Force and a key internal security commander.
Iranian media confirmed their martyrdom, and the Iranian National Security Council secretary, Ali Reijani, posted on Twitter: “The servant of God has met God.”
According to foreign media, Israeli authorities described Larijani as Iran’s de facto leader, effectively taking control after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death, making his assassination a significant blow to Iranian leadership.
Iranian missile retaliation
In response, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched Operation Sadeq 4, firing missiles at Tel Aviv. Weapons reportedly included Khorramshahr 4, Qadr, Emad, and Khybershakan missiles, with over 100 military and security targets struck.
Iranian state media confirmed the use of cluster munitions, destroying vehicles, causing fires, and damaging buildings. The attacks reportedly killed two people and furthered fears of escalating regional tensions.
Larijani’s son, Morteza, and deputy Alireza Bayat were also reportedly killed in the strike preceding Iran’s retaliation.
The killings mark a significant escalation in Iranian-Israeli hostilities. Analysts warn that Iran’s promise of “decisive” retaliation, coupled with missile strikes already carried out, could lead to further conflict across the Middle East.
The situation remains fluid, with both sides demonstrating a willingness to escalate military actions. International observers are closely monitoring potential spillover effects.
