The Israeli government has announced that it has carried out a targeted operation resulting in the death of Alireza Tangsiri, the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy.
Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, confirmed the development on Thursday, alleging that Tangsiri played a key role in activities linked to attacks and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to Katz, the operation also led to the deaths of several other senior naval officials, although their identities have not yet been publicly disclosed.
Tangsiri, who assumed leadership of the IRGC Navy in 2018 after previously serving as deputy commander, was known for his strong stance against Western involvement in the Middle East.
Reports indicate that he had recently issued warnings regarding the Strait of Hormuz, insisting that vessels connected to countries opposing Iran would not be allowed safe passage through the strategic route.
He had also, in the past, threatened that Iran could shut down the waterway if its oil exports were restricted by international sanctions.
As of now, Iranian authorities have not officially confirmed or responded to the reported strike.
- AFP/Getty Images
- BBC