Image: BBC World
In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Israel has reported the deaths of two prominent Iranian figures: Ali Larijani, a leading security official, and Gholamreza Soleimani, the commander of the Basij paramilitary force. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced that these key individuals were targeted in a series of air strikes near Tehran on the night of October 23, 2023. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized the significance of the operation, stating, "Larijani and the Basij commander were eliminated last night and have joined Khamenei, the head of the annihilation programme."
These air strikes mark a crucial moment in the ongoing conflict following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, earlier this year. Since that event on February 28, the region has been engulfed in warfare, with Iran retaliating against Israel and allied nations through missile and drone attacks. The repercussions of this conflict have been felt globally, particularly in the oil markets, where prices have surged due to Iranian actions disrupting production and export routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
The elimination of Larijani represents a striking blow to the Iranian regime, as he is among the highest-ranking officials to be assassinated since Khamenei. The IDF described Larijani as a pivotal figure in Iran’s leadership, asserting that he had become the de-facto leader after Khamenei's death and played a critical role in orchestrating military and strategic operations against Israel.
During a press briefing, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated, "We are undermining this regime in the hope of giving the Iranian people an opportunity to remove it." This statement underscores Israel's long-standing strategy aimed at destabilizing the Iranian government, which it views as a primary threat to regional stability.
The tensions escalated following a night of intense bombardment in Tehran, where the sounds of explosions and military activity echoed throughout the city. The Iranian government has yet to officially confirm the deaths of Larijani and Soleimani, although local media have reported casualties among security personnel in recent strikes.
The Basij Resistance Force, led by Soleimani, is notorious for its role in suppressing dissent within Iran. This paramilitary group, consisting of approximately one million members, often responds to protests with a heavy hand, employing violent tactics to maintain order. The IDF highlighted that Soleimani’s leadership during recent protests was particularly brutal, contributing to the deaths of over 6,500 protesters and the arrest of 53,000 individuals during the unrest that erupted in late 2022.
The social media landscape in Iran remains severely restricted, complicating communication with the public. However, some dissenting voices have emerged, expressing relief and satisfaction with the reported killings. A resident of Tehran, in his 30s, remarked, "I think it was a very important step because the decision-making brains must be shut down." Another young man from Karaj expressed joy over the news, labeling the deceased officials as
Survivors of the Laos cave rescue are aiding efforts to find the last two missing men trapped inside, sharing crucial insights for the search operation.
BBC World
A year after the tragic Air India crash, the Ali family reflects on grief, unanswered questions, and the enduring bonds of love in the face of loss.
BBC Business
A devastating explosion in Myanmar's Kaung Tat village has killed at least 55 people, raising serious safety concerns and questions about civilian protection in conflict zones.
BBC World