Israel on Wednesday announced that its forces had killed Iran’s Intelligence Minister, Esmail Khatib, in a targeted operation, further escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict between the two nations.
In a statement, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Katz said the operation was part of a broader directive approved alongside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, granting the military authority to eliminate senior Iranian officials identified through intelligence operations without requiring additional clearance.
Katz stated that Israel would continue to pursue key figures within Iran’s leadership, emphasizing a strategy aimed at neutralising individuals considered central to the country’s political and security framework.
The development follows confirmation of the death of Ali Larijani, a senior Iranian leader reportedly killed in an earlier Israeli strike. Iran has not officially confirmed Khatib’s death but had reacted strongly to Larijani’s killing, issuing warnings of retaliation.
The conflict between Israel and Iran has intensified over the past two weeks, following joint United States and Israeli airstrikes on February 28 that reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, triggering widespread regional instability.
Israel has also claimed responsibility for targeting Akram al-Ajouri, a senior figure in the military wing of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, during a strike inside Iran. Officials have further indicated intentions to locate and eliminate Mojtaba Khamenei, who reportedly assumed leadership after his father’s death but has not been seen publicly.
Security analysts describe Israel’s approach as a calculated effort to weaken Iran’s governing structure by removing key decision-makers within its political and military establishment.
Meanwhile, Iranian authorities and affiliated media outlets reported preparations for mass funerals for Larijani and other victims of recent attacks, although uncertainties remain about whether the ceremonies will proceed as planned.
On the ground, violence continues to escalate. Iranian missile strikes reportedly killed two people near Tel Aviv, with additional damage recorded in surrounding areas, including Ramat Gan. Residents described multiple explosions during the overnight assault.
In response, Iranian media reported fresh strikes by U.S. and Israeli forces on several locations across Iran, including Tehran. Casualty figures from these attacks remain unverified.
The conflict has spread across the region, affecting neighbouring countries. In Lebanon, Israeli airstrikes on central Beirut reportedly left at least 12 people dead and caused significant damage in densely populated districts.
Tensions have also impacted global energy supply routes. Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz have disrupted maritime traffic, raising concerns over oil exports. In response, the United States military said it carried out strikes on Iranian missile installations along the coast to secure international shipping lanes.
The situation remains fluid, with both sides continuing military operations amid growing fears of a broader regional crisis.
Israel Claims Killing of Iranian Intelligence Chief as Conflict Intensifies
