Israel Claims Assassination of Iran’s Top General in Tehran Airstrike

Israel announced on Tuesday, that it eliminated Major General Ali Shadmani, Iran’s highest-ranking military commander, in a targeted airstrike in central Tehran. The strike, described as a “precise intelligence-led” operation, occurred just days after the death of Shadmani’s predecessor, Major General Gholam Ali Rashid, in earlier Israeli attacks.

Shadmani, recently appointed head of Iran’s Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters, was a key figure advising Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His role involved overseeing combat operations and approving offensive strategies against Israel, making him a critical target in the escalating Israel-Iran conflict.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) claimed responsibility for neutralizing Shadmani, marking the second elimination of Iran’s wartime chief of staff within five days. As deputy commander and chief of operations for Iran’s armed forces, Shadmani played a pivotal role in coordinating the Revolutionary Guards and regular military units.

Iranian state media has yet to confirm Shadmani’s death, and Tehran officials have remained silent on the matter. This lack of response fuels speculation about the impact of Israel’s aggressive military campaign on Iran’s leadership structure.

On June 13, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, deploying over 200 aircraft and drones to strike 100 Iranian targets, including nuclear facilities in Natanz and Isfahan. The operation also targeted missile bases in Tabriz and Kermanshah and command centers in Tehran, killing IRGC commander Hossein Salami and nuclear scientist Fereydoon Abbasi.

Iran retaliated with Operation True Promise 3, launching over 100 Shahed drones and ballistic missiles targeting Israeli cities like Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Rehovot. Despite Israel’s Iron Dome and Arrow defense systems intercepting many projectiles, some missiles struck their targets, causing civilian casualties and significant damage.

U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stark warning on Truth Social, urging civilians to evacuate Tehran amid fears of further military escalation. His statement underscores the growing international concern over the intensifying Israel-Iran conflict and its potential for broader regional consequences.

The rapid succession of high-profile assassinations and large-scale military operations signals a dangerous escalation in Middle East tensions. As both nations exchange devastating blows, the international community braces for the possibility of a wider conflict with far-reaching implications.