Report reveals key Iranian military leaders killed along with Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes

The Middle East has been plunged into heightened turmoil following reports that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was neutralised in a joint military operation attributed to the United States and Israel, reportsRepublic. The operation reportedly involved aerial strikes targeting key military and government installations in Tehran and other strategic locations. Below is a look at senior Iranian commanders and security officials reportedly killed alongside the Supreme Leader: General Abdol Rahim MousaviGeneral Abdol Rahim Mousavi, the Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, was responsible for coordinating operations between the Army and other military branches.

He played a central role in shaping Iran’s overall defence strategy and operational planning. His reported death represents a significant blow to the country’s military command structure. Mohammad ShiraziMohammad Shirazi, head of the Military Bureau of the Supreme Leader since 1989, served as a key liaison between senior military commanders and the leadership.

According to reports, he was regarded as an influential figure within the upper ranks of the Iranian system. General Aziz NasirzadehGeneral Aziz Nasirzadeh was serving as Defence Minister at the time of the strikes. He previously commanded the Iranian Air Force and held the position of deputy chief of staff of the armed forces.

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Reports indicate he was involved in overseeing long-range missile production facilities and weapons systems supplied to Iran-backed groups in the region. He was also linked to the Organisation of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND), associated with sensitive research initiatives. Ali ShamkhaniAli Shamkhani was one of Iran’s most senior security figures since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

He held several high-ranking positions, including Navy chief, army chief, and Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council. A close adviser to Khamenei, Shamkhani also played a diplomatic role in efforts to restore ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia in 2023. He was later appointed head of Iran’s Defence Council following previous hostilities with Israel.

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