Breaking: The United States and Israel have launched coordinated military strikes against targets inside 

US-Iran War: Video Shows US Hit IRGC Facility Near School

The Israeli forces conducted a targeted, precision strike on a hotel room in central Beirut overnight on Sunday and said that five top commanders in the Lebanese Quds Force were killed. The IDF said the targeted commanders in the Lebanese Corps of the Quds Force of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards “operated to advance terror attacks against Israel and its civilians, while also operating for the IRGC in Iran.”&nbsp;The Quds Force commanders were in a hotel in the Raouche district of central Beirut when they were attacked after midnight. The attack targeted one of the rooms in the hotel. The IDF identified the five killed commanders as Majid Hassini, a senior moneyman in the Lebanon Corps, who the IDF says was responsible for transferring funds from Iran to proxy groups in Lebanon, including Hezbollah and Hamas; Ali Reza Bi-Azar, chief of intelligence in the Lebanon Corps; Ahmad Rasouli, chief of intelligence in the Palestine Corps; Hossein Ahmadlou, a lower-ranking intelligence operative in the Lebanon Corps; and Abu Muhammad Ali, Hezbollah’s representative in the Palestine Corps.&nbsp;Lebanon said that four were killed and 10 injured in the attack and that security forces blocked access to the area.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-s-military-warns-it-will-pursue-iran-s-next-supreme-leader-successors-1772972968321">Israel’s military warns it will ‘pursue’ Iran’s next supreme leader, successors</a>&nbsp;The IDF added that due steps were taken prior to the strike to mitigate harm to civilians, including the use of precise munitions and aerial surveillance.&nbsp;The IDF spokesperson’s office said, “The IDF conducted a precise strike targeting key commanders in the IRGC’s Quds Force’s Lebanon Corps who operated in Beirut. The commanders of the Quds Force’s Lebanon Corps operated to advance terror attacks against the state of Israel and its civilians, while operating simultaneously for the IRGC in Iran.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-selects-its-new-supreme-leader-amid-raging-war-with-us-israel-1772961973135">Iran selects its new supreme leader amid raging war with US, Israel</a>&nbsp;The IDF statement added that the Iranian terror regime operates systemically in the heart of the civilian population in Iran and Lebanon, cynically exploiting the civilian population as human shields to advance terror attacks.&nbsp;“The Lebanon Corp connects the Hezbollah terrorist organization and the Iranian terror regime, supports Hezbollah force-building, and functions as the connection between senior IRGC personnel and Hezbollah leadership.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-moment-of-truth-is-approaching-for-iranian-people-war-will-continue-netanyahu-1772916339670">‘Moment of truth is approaching for Iranian people, war will continue’: Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;The strike was on the Ramada Hotel in central Beirut, the first such attack in the heart of the Lebanese capital since Hezbollah started attacking Israel in response to Operation Roaring Lion against Iran.The hotel was housing displaced people fleeing the war in southern Lebanon and Beirut's southern suburbs.&nbsp;The IDF said earlier that it had launched a new “wave of strikes” against Beirut, saying it was targeting the southern suburbs of the capital, a stronghold of the pro-Iranian Hezbollah group.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-war-impact-kuwait-declares-force-majeure-announces-crude-oil-output-reduction-1772912837854">Iran War impact: Kuwait declares force majeure, announces crude oil output reduction</a>&nbsp;The Lebanese government has also slammed Hezbollah for its renewed attacks on Israel, accusing it of dragging Lebanon into a regional war.

The key commanders of the Quds Force were in a hotel in the Raouche district of central Beirut when they were attacked after midnight. The Israeli forces said steps were taken prior to the strike to mitigate harm to civilians, including the use of precise munitions and aerial surveillance.

The Israeli forces conducted a targeted, precision strike on a hotel room in central Beirut overnight on Sunday and said that five top commanders in the Lebanese Quds Force were killed. The IDF said the targeted commanders in the Lebanese Corps of the Quds Force of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards “operated to advance terror attacks against Israel and its civilians, while also operating for the IRGC in Iran.” The Quds Force commanders were in a hotel in the Raouche district of central Beirut when they were attacked after midnight. The attack targeted one of the rooms in the hotel. The IDF identified the five killed commanders as Majid Hassini, a senior moneyman in the Lebanon Corps, who the IDF says was responsible for transferring funds from Iran to proxy groups in Lebanon, including Hezbollah and Hamas; Ali Reza Bi-Azar, chief of intelligence in the Lebanon Corps; Ahmad Rasouli, chief of intelligence in the Palestine Corps; Hossein Ahmadlou, a lower-ranking intelligence operative in the Lebanon Corps; and Abu Muhammad Ali, Hezbollah’s representative in the Palestine Corps. Lebanon said that four were killed and 10 injured in the attack and that security forces blocked access to the area. Also Read: Israel’s military warns it will ‘pursue’ Iran’s next supreme leader, successors The IDF added that due steps were taken prior to the strike to mitigate harm to civilians, including the use of precise munitions and aerial surveillance. The IDF spokesperson’s office said, “The IDF conducted a precise strike targeting key commanders in the IRGC’s Quds Force’s Lebanon Corps who operated in Beirut. The commanders of the Quds Force’s Lebanon Corps operated to advance terror attacks against the state of Israel and its civilians, while operating simultaneously for the IRGC in Iran.” Also Read: Iran selects its new supreme leader amid raging war with US, Israel The IDF statement added that the Iranian terror regime operates systemically in the heart of the civilian population in Iran and Lebanon, cynically exploiting the civilian population as human shields to advance terror attacks. “The Lebanon Corp connects the Hezbollah terrorist organization and the Iranian terror regime, supports Hezbollah force-building, and functions as the connection between senior IRGC personnel and Hezbollah leadership.” Also Read: ‘Moment of truth is approaching for Iranian people, war will continue’: Netanyahu The strike was on the Ramada Hotel in central Beirut, the first such attack in the heart of the Lebanese capital since Hezbollah started attacking Israel in response to Operation Roaring Lion against Iran. The hotel was housing displaced people fleeing the war in southern Lebanon and Beirut's southern suburbs. The IDF said earlier that it had launched a new “wave of strikes” against Beirut, saying it was targeting the southern suburbs of the capital, a stronghold of the pro-Iranian Hezbollah group. Also Read: Iran War impact: Kuwait declares force majeure, announces crude oil output reduction The Lebanese government has also slammed Hezbollah for its renewed attacks on Israel, accusing it of dragging Lebanon into a regional war.

The key commanders of the Quds Force were in a hotel in the Raouche district of central Beirut when they were attacked after midnight. The Israeli forces said steps were taken prior to the strike to mitigate harm to civilians, including the use of precise munitions and aerial surveillance.

Israel attacks top commanders of IRGC’s Quds Force in Beirut hotel, five killed

At least four people were ​killed when an Israeli strike hit an apartment ‌in the Ramada hotel building in central Beirut early on Sunday, with Israel saying it targeted Iranian commanders operating in the Lebanese capital.
The ​attack marked the first Israeli strike to hit ​the heart of Beirut since Israel-Hezbollah hostilities resumed last ⁠week.

Israel: Iran Guards Commanders Targeted in Beirut Strike

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claims it attacked a U.S. oil tanker in the northern Persian Gulf. Tensions rise in the region as U.S. officials respond and maritime security concerns escalate. Stay updated for the latest developments.

US-Iran War: IRGC Claims Attack on U.S. Oil Tanker in Gulf

A spokesperson of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Force, Alimohammad Naini, has challenged US President Donald Trump's proposition to deploy naval vessels to escort oil tankers as they pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The IRGC spokesperson said that "Iran strongly welcomes” and is "awaiting their presence." It reminded US President Donald Trump of the American supertanker Bridgeton in 1987 before making the decision.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump on Truth Social said that the US Navy would begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. As the war in West Asia expands, oil prices continue to rise. Brent Crude has gone as high as $93.32 per barrel as of March 7, 2026. Trump pledged that the US would ensure the free flow of energy to the world, asserting that the US military and economic might is the greatest on earth. He further ordered the US International Development Finance Corporation to provide "political risk insurance and guarantees" for tankers transiting in the region. Trump said that Oil and gas prices will plummet once the war is over.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blackrock-hlend-fund-withdrawal-limit-private-credit-1772868211906">Liquidity Squeeze: BlackRock caps withdrawals from $26B HLEND fund amid investor anxiety</a>"Iran strongly welcomes the escort ​of oil tankers and the presence of US forces for the crossing of the ‌Strait ⁠of Hormuz. And we are, by the way, awaiting their presence," said Naini as reported by the state media. "We recommend that, before making any ​decision, the Americans ​remember ⁠the fire on the American supertanker Bridgeton in 1987 and the ​oil tankers that were recently ​targeted,"&nbsp;The Iranian Army has claimed an attack on an oil tanker operating under the commercial name Prima on March 7. The IRGC said that the tanker failed to comply with multiple warnings issued by the IRGC Naval Forces about the ban on transit through the Strait of Hormuz. &nbsp;According to the Iranian state media, The Prima is a Malta-flagged oil and chemical tanker. At least nine vessels have been targeted since the beginning of the war between the US and Iran on February 28.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran’s IRGC challenges Donald Trump’s plan to escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz as Brent crude nears $93 amid escalating US-Iran conflict.

A spokesperson of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Force, Alimohammad Naini, has challenged US President Donald Trump's proposition to deploy naval vessels to escort oil tankers as they pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The IRGC spokesperson said that "Iran strongly welcomes” and is "awaiting their presence." It reminded US President Donald Trump of the American supertanker Bridgeton in 1987 before making the decision. US President Donald Trump on Truth Social said that the US Navy would begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. As the war in West Asia expands, oil prices continue to rise. Brent Crude has gone as high as $93.32 per barrel as of March 7, 2026. Trump pledged that the US would ensure the free flow of energy to the world, asserting that the US military and economic might is the greatest on earth. He further ordered the US International Development Finance Corporation to provide "political risk insurance and guarantees" for tankers transiting in the region. Trump said that Oil and gas prices will plummet once the war is over. Also Read: Liquidity Squeeze: BlackRock caps withdrawals from $26B HLEND fund amid investor anxiety "Iran strongly welcomes the escort of oil tankers and the presence of US forces for the crossing of the ‌Strait ⁠of Hormuz. And we are, by the way, awaiting their presence," said Naini as reported by the state media. "We recommend that, before making any decision, the Americans remember ⁠the fire on the American supertanker Bridgeton in 1987 and the oil tankers that were recently targeted," The Iranian Army has claimed an attack on an oil tanker operating under the commercial name Prima on March 7. The IRGC said that the tanker failed to comply with multiple warnings issued by the IRGC Naval Forces about the ban on transit through the Strait of Hormuz. According to the Iranian state media, The Prima is a Malta-flagged oil and chemical tanker. At least nine vessels have been targeted since the beginning of the war between the US and Iran on February 28.

Iran’s IRGC challenges Donald Trump’s plan to escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz as Brent crude nears $93 amid escalating US-Iran conflict.

IRGC challenges Trump’s plan to escort oil tankers in Hormuz

Despite heavy U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian command centers, analysts say the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) may still operate decentralized strike cells keeping parts of Iran’s missile network active. Iran has relied on underground missile bases and mobile launchers to sustain retaliatory capabilities during the ongoing conflict.

IRGC's Ghost Command Strikes Back, Independent Strike Cells Keep Iran's Missile Network Alive

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) says it has launched a fresh wave of attacks on U.S. and Israeli targets, firing around 40 missiles as part of the 17th wave of retaliation in the ongoing war, state media reports say. The strikes follow days of intensive U.S.‑Israel air operations against Iranian military infrastructure, and heighten tensions across the Middle East. Israel’s air defence systems have been activated to intercept incoming threats, and regional allies are on alert as conflict dynamics continue to evolve.

Iran Strikes Israel: IRGC Fires 40 Missiles in 17th Wave of Retaliation

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has launched a fresh wave of drone attacks and fired around 40 missiles at U.S. and Israeli targets as the Middle East conflict continues to escalate, state media and international reports say. The strikes come on the fifth day of war following joint U.S.‑Israeli attacks inside Iran. Tehran described the barrage as part of Operation Honest Promise 4 aimed at American and Israeli positions. Air defences across the region are responding to incoming threats as tensions deepen and broader hostilities unfold.

Iran Launches Fresh Drone Attacks as IRGC Fires 40 Missiles at US, Israeli Targets

President Donald Trump claimed the U.S. “destroyed” key command centers tied to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), sharply escalating tensions. Trump warned Tehran against retaliation, saying any response would be met with overwhelming force. The statement raises concerns over regional stability, possible military escalation, and the future of U.S.–Iran relations.

Iran War: US 'Destroys' IRGC's Command Facilities: Trump Warns Retaliation

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned on Monday (March 2) that the United States ‘will no longer be safe’ as joint US–Israeli strikes against the Islamic Republic entered their fourth day. "The enemy should know that their happy days are over and they will no longer be safe anywhere in the world, not even in their own homes," the Guards' Quds Force, which manages its overseas operations, said in a statement broadcast on state television.&nbsp;A spokesperson for Khatam al-Anbiya Air Defense Base said, "The American base in Arifjan in Kuwait was targeted by 12 drones. The US military command and control center in the UAE was targeted by 6 drones and 5 ballistic missiles. The remaining facilities of the US naval fleet in Bahrain were destroyed by 6 drones. The tanker ‘Aten nova’, one of the US allies, is still burning in the Strait of Hormuz after being hit by 2 drones."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-big-one-is-coming-soon-trump-s-massive-statement-amid-israel-iran-war-1772465737760">'BIG ONE is coming soon', Trump's MASSIVE statement amid Israel-Iran war</a><h2>Trump defends US military action in Iran</h2>Donald Trump said on Monday (March 2) that he ordered the strike on Iran to disrupt its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, pledging to continue the war for as long as needed. He said, without presenting evidence, that the threat from Iran had been imminent when he decided to authorize the attacks. The strikes have killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, sunk Iranian warships and hit more than 1,000 targets to date.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-israel-iran-s-ramping-up-counterattacks-across-west-asia-1772478860804/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-israel-iran-s-ramping-up-counterattacks-across-west-asia-1772478860804/embed</a>&nbsp;"This was our last best chance to strike ... and eliminate the intolerable threats posed by this sick and sinister regime," he said during an event in the White House East Room. Trump returned to the White House after spending the weekend in Florida, and his remarks marked his most detailed comments so far on the conflict, expanding beyond two video statements and several brief phone interviews with reporters that at times outlined differing goals.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

'Will no longer be safe': IRGC's BIG warning to US as Israel-Iran war enters fourth day

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned on Monday (March 2) that the United States ‘will no longer be safe’ as joint US–Israeli strikes against the Islamic Republic entered their fourth day. "The enemy should know that their happy days are over and they will no longer be safe anywhere in the world, not even in their own homes," the Guards' Quds Force, which manages its overseas operations, said in a statement broadcast on state television. A spokesperson for Khatam al-Anbiya Air Defense Base said, "The American base in Arifjan in Kuwait was targeted by 12 drones. The US military command and control center in the UAE was targeted by 6 drones and 5 ballistic missiles. The remaining facilities of the US naval fleet in Bahrain were destroyed by 6 drones. The tanker ‘Aten nova’, one of the US allies, is still burning in the Strait of Hormuz after being hit by 2 drones." Also Read: 'BIG ONE is coming soon', Trump's MASSIVE statement amid Israel-Iran war Trump defends US military action in Iran Donald Trump said on Monday (March 2) that he ordered the strike on Iran to disrupt its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, pledging to continue the war for as long as needed. He said, without presenting evidence, that the threat from Iran had been imminent when he decided to authorize the attacks. The strikes have killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, sunk Iranian warships and hit more than 1,000 targets to date. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-strikes-israel-iran-s-ramping-up-counterattacks-across-west-asia-1772478860804/embed "This was our last best chance to strike ... and eliminate the intolerable threats posed by this sick and sinister regime," he said during an event in the White House East Room. Trump returned to the White House after spending the weekend in Florida, and his remarks marked his most detailed comments so far on the conflict, expanding beyond two video statements and several brief phone interviews with reporters that at times outlined differing goals. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned on Monday that the United States ‘will no longer be safe’ as joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran entered the &nbsp;fourth day

The US military claimed that it destroyed the headquarters of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards in strikes on the second day of its operations in the Islamic Republic. "America has the most powerful military on earth, and the IRGC no longer has a headquarters," the US Central Command, or CENTCOM, said in a statement.&nbsp;"The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) killed more than 1,000 Americans over the past 47 years. Yesterday, a large-scale US strike cut off the head of the snake," CENTCOM added. The US-Israeli operation in Iran entered its second day after assassinating Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a precision strike on a high-security compound in Tehran. Several other top leaders were also killed after the US and Israel, launched a massive coordinated aerial campaign on Saturday.&nbsp;The strikes, codenamed Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States, struck multiple sites across Iran. The strikes targeted government buildings in Tehran and suspected nuclear facilities, specifically aiming to decapitate the highest levels of Iranian leadership.&nbsp;Following Khamenei's death, the IRGC declared that the "killer of the Imam" would face "severe, decisive, and deterrent punishment.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-calls-up-100-000-reserve-soldiers-as-netanyahu-vows-to-intensify-iran-operation-following-khamenei-s-death-1772390404839">Israel calls up 100,000 reserve soldiers as Netanyahu vows to intensify Iran operation following Khamenei’s assassination</a>&nbsp;In response, the US president said Washington would hit Iran with "force that has never been seen before" if it retaliated against US and Israeli strikes.&nbsp;However, Trump said on Sunday that he will be talking to the new Iranian leaders without specifying any time for the talks.&nbsp;"They want to talk, and I have agreed to talk, so I will be talking to them. They should have done it sooner," Trump was quoted as saying by The Atlantic, as US and Israeli forces press a war against Iran for a second day.&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

The US Centcom declared America has the most powerful military on earth, and the IRGC no longer has a headquarters. 

The US military claimed that it destroyed the headquarters of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards in strikes on the second day of its operations in the Islamic Republic. "America has the most powerful military on earth, and the IRGC no longer has a headquarters," the US Central Command, or CENTCOM, said in a statement. "The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) killed more than 1,000 Americans over the past 47 years. Yesterday, a large-scale US strike cut off the head of the snake," CENTCOM added. The US-Israeli operation in Iran entered its second day after assassinating Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a precision strike on a high-security compound in Tehran. Several other top leaders were also killed after the US and Israel, launched a massive coordinated aerial campaign on Saturday. The strikes, codenamed Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States, struck multiple sites across Iran. The strikes targeted government buildings in Tehran and suspected nuclear facilities, specifically aiming to decapitate the highest levels of Iranian leadership. Following Khamenei's death, the IRGC declared that the "killer of the Imam" would face "severe, decisive, and deterrent punishment. Also Read: Israel calls up 100,000 reserve soldiers as Netanyahu vows to intensify Iran operation following Khamenei’s assassination In response, the US president said Washington would hit Iran with "force that has never been seen before" if it retaliated against US and Israeli strikes. However, Trump said on Sunday that he will be talking to the new Iranian leaders without specifying any time for the talks. "They want to talk, and I have agreed to talk, so I will be talking to them. They should have done it sooner," Trump was quoted as saying by The Atlantic, as US and Israeli forces press a war against Iran for a second day. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

The US Centcom declared America has the most powerful military on earth, and the IRGC no longer has a headquarters.&nbsp;

'Cut off snake’s head': US military says it destroyed headquarters of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards

Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards on Saturday (Feb 28) claimed they targeted the US Fifth Fleet in Bahrain as part of Operation True Promise 4, launched in response to a joint operation by the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic after the failure of recent nuclear talks in Oman and Switzerland. The military strikes, named Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States, hit over 30 sites across Iran, including government buildings in Tehran and suspected nuclear facilities.&nbsp;“The IRGC’s missiles and drones have struck the headquarters of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain and other American bases in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, as well as military and security centres in the heart of the occupied territories, delivering severe blows,” the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said in a statement carried by the Tasnim news agency, AFP reported.&nbsp;The IRGC further declared all US bases, resources and interests throughout the region legitimate targets for the Iranian army.&nbsp;Iranian missiles and drones also targeted Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest US installation in the region, Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, and Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE. It also launched a “first wave” of extensive missile attacks toward Israel, prompting the country to declare a nationwide state of emergency.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-us-strikes-on-iran-air-india-and-global-carriers-suspend-flights-to-west-asia-1772273145510">Israel-US strikes on Iran: Air India and global carriers suspend flights to West Asia</a>&nbsp;The Saturdays' joint strikes by the US and Israel follow the failure of indirect negotiations held in Oman and Switzerland earlier this month after Washington issued a 10-day deadline for Iran to agree to a “zero-enrichment” nuclear framework.&nbsp;However, Tehran has repeatedly denied any intention of developing nuclear weapons, while US negotiators pressed for zero enrichment, a demand Iran says is necessary for its civilian nuclear energy requirements.&nbsp;Additionally, the US and Israel demanded that the deal include not just nuclear curbs but also the dismantling of Iran’s long-range ballistic missile programme and a halt to regional proxy funding.&nbsp;In June 2025, following escalated tensions between Israel and Iran over Tehran’s support for proxies against Israel’s war in Gaza and Lebanon, the US and Israel jointly launched Operation Midnight Hammer. Seven US B-2 stealth bombers flew from Missouri to strike three major nuclear sites: Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan.

Iranian missiles and drones also targeted Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest US installation in the region, Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, and Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE.

Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards on Saturday (Feb 28) claimed they targeted the US Fifth Fleet in Bahrain as part of Operation True Promise 4, launched in response to a joint operation by the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic after the failure of recent nuclear talks in Oman and Switzerland. The military strikes, named Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States, hit over 30 sites across Iran, including government buildings in Tehran and suspected nuclear facilities. “The IRGC’s missiles and drones have struck the headquarters of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain and other American bases in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, as well as military and security centres in the heart of the occupied territories, delivering severe blows,” the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said in a statement carried by the Tasnim news agency, AFP reported. The IRGC further declared all US bases, resources and interests throughout the region legitimate targets for the Iranian army. Iranian missiles and drones also targeted Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest US installation in the region, Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, and Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE. It also launched a “first wave” of extensive missile attacks toward Israel, prompting the country to declare a nationwide state of emergency. Also Read: Israel-US strikes on Iran: Air India and global carriers suspend flights to West Asia The Saturdays' joint strikes by the US and Israel follow the failure of indirect negotiations held in Oman and Switzerland earlier this month after Washington issued a 10-day deadline for Iran to agree to a “zero-enrichment” nuclear framework. However, Tehran has repeatedly denied any intention of developing nuclear weapons, while US negotiators pressed for zero enrichment, a demand Iran says is necessary for its civilian nuclear energy requirements. Additionally, the US and Israel demanded that the deal include not just nuclear curbs but also the dismantling of Iran’s long-range ballistic missile programme and a halt to regional proxy funding. In June 2025, following escalated tensions between Israel and Iran over Tehran’s support for proxies against Israel’s war in Gaza and Lebanon, the US and Israel jointly launched Operation Midnight Hammer. Seven US B-2 stealth bombers flew from Missouri to strike three major nuclear sites: Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan.

Iranian missiles and drones also targeted Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest US installation in the region, Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, and Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards hits US Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, declares all American assets legitimate targets

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on Monday (February 16, 2026) began a series of military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, state media reported, on the eve of talks with the United States.


War Games in Strait of Hormuz To 'Prepare Guards For Military Threats'

Amidst the diplomatic tensions over the nuclear deal with the US, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Navy began a military exercise in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, local media reported on Monday (Feb. 16). The drill was named “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz," and was reported being led by the naval forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It was also reported that IRGC's Commander-in-Chief Major General Mohammad Pakpour, was supervising the process. The exercise aimed to assess the readiness of operational units, review security plans, and rehearse scenarios for a military response to potential security threats.


IRGC Carries Out Live-fire Exercises, Iran Issues Notam for Live-fire Drills Near Strait of Hormuz

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) seized two oil tankers with their foreign crews in Gulf waters for allegedly smuggling fuel, reported by Iranian media. "More than one million liters of smuggled fuel were found on board of the two vessels," Tasnim reported, and a total of "15 foreign crew members were referred to the judiciary." &nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mention-of-pizza-1000-times-in-epstein-files-new-documents-reveal-unsolved-mystery-of-erin-ko-stephanie-and-roy-hodges-1770061950551">Mention of ‘Pizza’ 1000 times in Epstein Files? New documents reveal mystery of Erin Ko, Stephanie and Roy Hodges</a>&nbsp;The Guards captured the vessels near Iran's Farsi island in the Gulf, the agency said. It added that the tankers were engaged in smuggling operations for several months and were identified and intercepted following surveillance, interception and intelligence operations."&nbsp;&nbsp;Iranian forces regularly target tankers that Tehran has accused of being part of the illicit trade in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. It is a key chokepoint for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. The seizure is the latest in a series of similar incidents in recent months.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/they-asked-me-to-fix-it-and-i-did-italian-painter-restores-angel-s-face-critics-say-it-now-looks-like-giorgia-meloni-1770122128849">‘They asked me to fix it, and I did’: Italian painter restores angel’s face in church — critics say it now looks like Giorgia Meloni</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Ezzatollah Zarghami, former head of Iran’s state broadcasting organization and former minister, threatens the Americans: “The Strait of Hormuz will be a killing field and a hell for the Americans. Iran will show that the Strait of Hormuz has historically belonged to Iran. The… <a href="https://t.co/8EbFGWXT9L">pic.twitter.com/8EbFGWXT9L</a>&mdash; The Middle Eastern (@TMiddleEastern) <a href="https://twitter.com/TMiddleEastern/status/2019326071305314390?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In a separate incident on Tuesday (Feb 3), the Strait of Hormuz, the US Central Command said IRGC forces had approached a US-flagged tanker at speed and threatened to board and seize it.&nbsp;Ezzatollah Zarghami, former minister and former head of Iran’s state broadcasting organisation (IRIB), warned that "the Strait of Hormuz will be the place of massacre and hell."&nbsp;"I am sure that the Strait of Hormuz will be the place of massacre and hell for the US... Iran will show that the Strait of Hormuz has historically belonged to Iran. The only thing the Americans can think of is playing with their vessels and moving them from one place to another,” he continued. &nbsp;

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) seized two oil tankers with their foreign crews in Gulf waters for allegedly smuggling fuel, reported by Iranian media.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) seized two oil tankers with their foreign crews in Gulf waters for allegedly smuggling fuel, reported by Iranian media. "More than one million liters of smuggled fuel were found on board of the two vessels," Tasnim reported, and a total of "15 foreign crew members were referred to the judiciary." Also read: Mention of ‘Pizza’ 1000 times in Epstein Files? New documents reveal mystery of Erin Ko, Stephanie and Roy Hodges The Guards captured the vessels near Iran's Farsi island in the Gulf, the agency said. It added that the tankers were engaged in smuggling operations for several months and were identified and intercepted following surveillance, interception and intelligence operations." Iranian forces regularly target tankers that Tehran has accused of being part of the illicit trade in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. It is a key chokepoint for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. The seizure is the latest in a series of similar incidents in recent months. Also read: ‘They asked me to fix it, and I did’: Italian painter restores angel’s face in church — critics say it now looks like Giorgia Meloni

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) seized two oil tankers with their foreign crews in Gulf waters for allegedly smuggling fuel, reported by Iranian media.

IRGC seize 2 oil tankers with foreign crew for 'smuggling fuel’

Twin explosions occurred in southern Iran on Saturday amid escalation in tensions as fears of war loom following warnings of military action and sharp reactions by Washington and Tehran. One explosion occurred at Iran’s southern port of Bandar Abbas, confirmed Iranian media reports without revealing the cause for the blast. Iran's state television said the explosion occurred at an eight-story building, "destroying two floors, several vehicles, and shops" in Moallem Boulevard area of the city. Images carried by state TV showed the building's facade blown out, exposing parts of its interior, with debris scattered around. One person was killed, and 14 were reportedly injured in the blast.&nbsp;&nbsp;The port of Bandar Abbas lies on the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway between Iran and Oman that handles a fifth of the world’s seaborne oil. The authorities in Iran rejected reports alleging that a Revolutionary Guard navy commander was targeted and killed in the explosion.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-justice-deptt-releases-over-3-million-pages-says-did-not-protect-trump-1769791027282">Epstein files: Justice Deptt releases final tranche of over 3 million pages, says ‘did not protect Trump’</a>&nbsp;Several Telegram channels had circulated claims that Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy, was targeted in the assassination.The semi-official Tasnim news agency said that social media reports alleging that a Revolutionary Guard navy commander was targeted in the explosion were “completely false”.&nbsp;The Director General of Crisis Management in Hormozgan province said a loud blast heard in parts of Bandar Abbas was caused by an explosion at a residential home on Moallem Boulevard and was not related to any other incidents.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/stem-cell-therapy-for-autism-is-unethical-medical-malpractice-supreme-court-1769771630269">‘Stem cell therapy for autism is unethical, medical malpractice,’ says Supreme Court</a><h2>Four killed in gas explosion in Ahvaz, Khuzestan</h2>&nbsp;In the second instance, four people were killed following a gas explosion in a residential unit in Ahvaz, Khuzestan province. The Fire Department announced that debris removal operations are still ongoing and will continue until all those trapped under the rubble are located.&nbsp;The head of the Ahvaz Municipality Fire Department and Safety Services said, “The incident occurred this morning in a residential building on Golha Koy Street, Kianshahr, Ahvaz. Firefighters and rescuers were dispatched to the scene and began providing assistance. So far, 4 people have died and one person has been injured as a result of this incident.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ghazni-not-foreign-invader-but-hindustani-looter-says-ex-vp-hamid-ansari-sparks-row-1769785148038">Ghazni ‘not foreign invader, but Hindustani looter,’ says ex-VP Hamid Ansari, sparks row</a>&nbsp;After the two explosions, several Telegram channels circulated rumours claiming the assassination of Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy.&nbsp;Earlier on Saturday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the US, Israeli, and European leaders of exploiting Iran’s economic problems, inciting unrest, and providing people with the means to “tear the nation apart.”

Several Telegram channels circulated claims that Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy, was targeted in the assassination. The Tasnim news agency said social media reports alleging an IRGC navy commander was targeted were false.

Twin explosions occurred in southern Iran on Saturday amid escalation in tensions as fears of war loom following warnings of military action and sharp reactions by Washington and Tehran. One explosion occurred at Iran’s southern port of Bandar Abbas, confirmed Iranian media reports without revealing the cause for the blast. Iran's state television said the explosion occurred at an eight-story building, "destroying two floors, several vehicles, and shops" in Moallem Boulevard area of the city. Images carried by state TV showed the building's facade blown out, exposing parts of its interior, with debris scattered around. One person was killed, and 14 were reportedly injured in the blast. The port of Bandar Abbas lies on the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway between Iran and Oman that handles a fifth of the world’s seaborne oil. The authorities in Iran rejected reports alleging that a Revolutionary Guard navy commander was targeted and killed in the explosion. Also Read: Epstein files: Justice Deptt releases final tranche of over 3 million pages, says ‘did not protect Trump’ Several Telegram channels had circulated claims that Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy, was targeted in the assassination. The semi-official Tasnim news agency said that social media reports alleging that a Revolutionary Guard navy commander was targeted in the explosion were “completely false”. The Director General of Crisis Management in Hormozgan province said a loud blast heard in parts of Bandar Abbas was caused by an explosion at a residential home on Moallem Boulevard and was not related to any other incidents. Also Read: ‘Stem cell therapy for autism is unethical, medical malpractice,’ says Supreme Court Four killed in gas explosion in Ahvaz, Khuzestan In the second instance, four people were killed following a gas explosion in a residential unit in Ahvaz, Khuzestan province. The Fire Department announced that debris removal operations are still ongoing and will continue until all those trapped under the rubble are located. The head of the Ahvaz Municipality Fire Department and Safety Services said, “The incident occurred this morning in a residential building on Golha Koy Street, Kianshahr, Ahvaz. Firefighters and rescuers were dispatched to the scene and began providing assistance. So far, 4 people have died and one person has been injured as a result of this incident.” Also Read: Ghazni ‘not foreign invader, but Hindustani looter,’ says ex-VP Hamid Ansari, sparks row After the two explosions, several Telegram channels circulated rumours claiming the assassination of Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy. Earlier on Saturday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the US, Israeli, and European leaders of exploiting Iran’s economic problems, inciting unrest, and providing people with the means to “tear the nation apart.”

Several Telegram channels circulated claims that Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy, was targeted in the assassination. The Tasnim news agency said social media reports alleging an IRGC navy commander was targeted were false.

Two explosions rock southern Iran; Tehran denies IRGC navy commander assassination reports

The European Union has agreed to designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation, marking a major political rebuke of Tehran over its violent suppression of protests. EU foreign ministers reached a unanimous agreement on Thursday (January 29) during talks in Brussels, clearing the way for the formal adoption of the decision in the coming days.&nbsp;Once enacted, the designation will impose an asset freeze, ban financial support, and restrict travel for all active IRGC members, many of whom are already sanctioned under existing EU measures. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the move was a response to severe repression, stressing that regimes killing their own citizens face inevitable consequences. The decision followed a shift in position by France and Spain, which had previously expressed reservations, while Belgium also moved toward approval. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called for an end to executions, the release of political detainees, and the restoration of internet access in Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-minnesotans-we-ve-been-through-a-lot-democratic-senator-amy-klobuchar-announces-run-for-governor-1769690111849">'Minnesotans, we've been through a lot': Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar announces run for governor. Who is she?</a>&nbsp;He also urged Iranian authorities to allow two French nationals currently sheltering at the French embassy in Tehran to leave the country. The IRGC is accused of directing crackdowns on demonstrators, supplying weapons to Russia, firing missiles at Israel, and supporting armed groups, including Hezbollah, Hamas, and Yemen’s Houthi movement. Several countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, have already listed the IRGC as a terrorist organisation. Germany and the Netherlands have long pushed for the EU to take the same step. The EU’s terrorism blacklist currently includes 22 organisations, among them Hamas, Hezbollah’s military wing, and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-china-talks-starmer-meets-chinese-premier-li-qiang-uk-citizens-get-visa-free-trave-1769696485876/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-china-talks-starmer-meets-chinese-premier-li-qiang-uk-citizens-get-visa-free-trave-1769696485876/embed</a>&nbsp;Founded in 1979 in the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was created to safeguard the Islamic Republic and suppress potential uprisings. Over time, it has greatly expanded its influence, extending its reach into Iran’s political, economic, and social spheres, and has effectively evolved into a “state within a state.”

EU designates Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps as terrorist organisation

The European Union has agreed to designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation, marking a major political rebuke of Tehran over its violent suppression of protests. EU foreign ministers reached a unanimous agreement on Thursday (January 29) during talks in Brussels, clearing the way for the formal adoption of the decision in the coming days. Once enacted, the designation will impose an asset freeze, ban financial support, and restrict travel for all active IRGC members, many of whom are already sanctioned under existing EU measures. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the move was a response to severe repression, stressing that regimes killing their own citizens face inevitable consequences. The decision followed a shift in position by France and Spain, which had previously expressed reservations, while Belgium also moved toward approval. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called for an end to executions, the release of political detainees, and the restoration of internet access in Iran. Also Read: 'Minnesotans, we've been through a lot': Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar announces run for governor. Who is she? He also urged Iranian authorities to allow two French nationals currently sheltering at the French embassy in Tehran to leave the country. The IRGC is accused of directing crackdowns on demonstrators, supplying weapons to Russia, firing missiles at Israel, and supporting armed groups, including Hezbollah, Hamas, and Yemen’s Houthi movement. Several countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, have already listed the IRGC as a terrorist organisation. Germany and the Netherlands have long pushed for the EU to take the same step. The EU’s terrorism blacklist currently includes 22 organisations, among them Hamas, Hezbollah’s military wing, and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party. https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-china-talks-starmer-meets-chinese-premier-li-qiang-uk-citizens-get-visa-free-trave-1769696485876/embed Founded in 1979 in the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was created to safeguard the Islamic Republic and suppress potential uprisings. Over time, it has greatly expanded its influence, extending its reach into Iran’s political, economic, and social spheres, and has effectively evolved into a “state within a state.”

The EU on Thursday (January 29) unanimously agreed to designate Iran’s IRGC as a terrorist organisation, citing violent repression, regional attacks, and support for armed allies

Venezuela was one of the first to recognise the Islamic Republic after 1979, and the relationship expanded significantly in the early 2000s with state visits and a suite of bilateral agreements spanning infrastructure, housing, and energy cooperation.

Venezuela was one of the first to recognise the Islamic Republic after 1979, and the relationship expanded significantly in the early 2000s with state visits and a suite of bilateral agreements spanning infrastructure, housing, and energy cooperation.

How Iran used Venezuela’s territory to spread terror across South America

Iran is once again witnessing scenes its leadership knows all too well: shuttered bazaars, paralysed universities and protestors on the streets, once again challenging the Khamenei regime. What began as anger over a collapsing rial, persistent hyperinflation and cries for economic stability has escalated into a broader political outcry. Across Tehran, Isfahan, Lorestan, and other regions, demonstrators are no longer just demanding economic relief but now they are openly calling for the end of clerical rule. Videos circulating online show crowds chanting slogans such as ‘Mullahs must leave Iran’, ‘Death to Khamenei’ and ‘Shah will return’, as unrest across Iran enters sixth day, leaving little room for ambiguity.&nbsp;During these protests, a volunteer member of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard was killed in Kuhdasht. Another 13 members of the Basij, a volunteer paramilitary affiliated with the Revolutionary Guards, were reportedly wounded by the demonstrators, according to Reuters. These incidents, have brought the focus on the increasing volatility and dissent as the country faces its largest unrest in three years.&nbsp;The Iran-Iraq War (1980–88) transformed the IRGC into more of a conventional fighting force. Now highly institutionalised, it remains a force parallel to that of Iran’s regular armed forces. The IRGC include ground forces based across Iran’s 31 provinces, the Basij paramilitary force, naval force which is separate from the naval branch of Iran’s regular military, a separate air force and a cyber command.&nbsp;<h2>Origins and Structure of the Basij</h2>&nbsp;The Basij, formally known as the Organisation for the Mobilisation of the Oppressed (Sâzmân-e Basij-e Mostaz'afin), was established in 1980 at the behest of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who called for ‘20 million riflemen’ to defend the revolution. It is an Iranian paramilitary volunteer militia under the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). According to Reuters, the Basij is a volunteer paramilitary force that operates under the direct loyalty of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;Research published in the Journal of Modern Science describes Iran’s security strategy as a ‘doctrine of mosaic defense,’ combining multi-layered territorial protection with asymmetric warfare. Within this framework, the role of Basij is not just limited to being a subsidiary of the IRGC but it also plays its part in central mechanism for social mobilisation, suppressing dissent, and achieving regime objectives. Beyond domestic enforcement, the Basij supports allied groups abroad and participates in regional conflicts, reflecting its dual role in internal and external Iranian strategy. It has frequently been accused of participating in violent crackdowns, notably during the 2009 presidential election and in November 2019 when the Basij were reportedly among the Iranian security forces responsible for the deaths of hundreds of men, women, and children.&nbsp;

Members of Iranian Paramilitary women forces - Basij

&nbsp;<h2>Functions and Influence</h2>&nbsp;According to the United States Institute of Peace, the Basij is an auxiliary force performing a wide range of duties, from internal security and law enforcement to policing morals and organising special religious or political events. The militia has its branches in nearly every city and town in Iran, giving the Supreme Leader a broad reach over society. It gained increased significance following the disputed 2009 election, when Khamenei mobilised the force to counter perceived 'domestic' threats. This growing influence has reinforced the Basij’s political and economic power, contributing to the militarisation of the Iranian regime.&nbsp;Despite its authority, the Basij is not immune to challenges. Its response to past protests has sometimes been criticised, and its limited budget constrains operations. But the attacks on Basij is not something new, the force has faced similar wrath of cilivians and 'terrorist groups' in the past. Integration into the IRGC Ground Forces in 2008 further reshaped its structure, while US and international sanctions on the IRGC could weaken its capacity. Yet its centrality to Iran’s internal security apparatus remains unquestioned.&nbsp;<h2>Contemporary Relevance and Regional Role</h2>&nbsp;As protests continue across the country, Basij volunteers have been active in providing both security and public support. During the Israel-Iran conflict in June 2025, Revolutionary Guards Commander-in-Chief Mohammad Pakpour stated, “Basij volunteers were active in the fields of security and public support from the first day of the escalation.” In the same war, Mohammad Taghi Yousefvand, commander of intelligence protection for Basij forces, was killed during the Israeli missile strike.&nbsp;In Iran’s complex power structure, the Basij remains the regime’s “eyes and ears,” a versatile tool for both domestic control and regional influence. Its deep integration with the IRGC, wide-reaching network, and ideological commitment ensure that as protests intensify, the Basij will continue to be central to the survival and projection of Iran’s clerical leadership.

The IRGC include ground forces based across Iran’s 31 provinces, the Basij paramilitary force, naval force which is separate from the naval branch of Iran’s regular military, a separate air force and a cyber command.

Iran is once again witnessing scenes its leadership knows all too well: shuttered bazaars, paralysed universities and protestors on the streets, once again challenging the Khamenei regime. What began as anger over a collapsing rial, persistent hyperinflation and cries for economic stability has escalated into a broader political outcry. Across Tehran, Isfahan, Lorestan, and other regions, demonstrators are no longer just demanding economic relief but now they are openly calling for the end of clerical rule. Videos circulating online show crowds chanting slogans such as ‘Mullahs must leave Iran’, ‘Death to Khamenei’ and ‘Shah will return’, as unrest across Iran enters sixth day, leaving little room for ambiguity. During these protests, a volunteer member of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard was killed in Kuhdasht. Another 13 members of the Basij, a volunteer paramilitary affiliated with the Revolutionary Guards, were reportedly wounded by the demonstrators, according to Reuters. These incidents, have brought the focus on the increasing volatility and dissent as the country faces its largest unrest in three years. The Iran-Iraq War (1980–88) transformed the IRGC into more of a conventional fighting force. Now highly institutionalised, it remains a force parallel to that of Iran’s regular armed forces. The IRGC include ground forces based across Iran’s 31 provinces, the Basij paramilitary force, naval force which is separate from the naval branch of Iran’s regular military, a separate air force and a cyber command. Origins and Structure of the Basij The Basij, formally known as the Organisation for the Mobilisation of the Oppressed (Sâzmân-e Basij-e Mostaz'afin), was established in 1980 at the behest of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who called for ‘20 million riflemen’ to defend the revolution. It is an Iranian paramilitary volunteer militia under the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). According to Reuters, the Basij is a volunteer paramilitary force that operates under the direct loyalty of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Research published in the Journal of Modern Science describes Iran’s security strategy as a ‘doctrine of mosaic defense,’ combining multi-layered territorial protection with asymmetric warfare. Within this framework, the role of Basij is not just limited to being a subsidiary of the IRGC but it also plays its part in central mechanism for social mobilisation, suppressing dissent, and achieving regime objectives. Beyond domestic enforcement, the Basij supports allied groups abroad and participates in regional conflicts, reflecting its dual role in internal and external Iranian strategy. It has frequently been accused of participating in violent crackdowns, notably during the 2009 presidential election and in November 2019 when the Basij were reportedly among the Iranian security forces responsible for the deaths of hundreds of men, women, and children.

The IRGC include ground forces based across Iran’s 31 provinces, the Basij paramilitary force, naval force which is separate from the naval branch of Iran’s regular military, a separate air force and a cyber command.

Iran protest: Basij militia, the 'eyes and ears of the regime', faces attacks. All about its history, role and power

Israel's Ministry of Defence announced the seizure of 187 crypto wallets worth $1.5 million. According to the Ministry's National Bureau for Counter Terror Financing (NBCTF), these accounts are linked to officials of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It said that it was sure that these accounts are "used for the perpetration of a severe terror crime.” The IRGC is designated a terrorist organisation in the United States, the United Kingdom and Israel.These addresses have transmitted $1.5 billion in Tether's stablecoin USDT. Epileptic's Co-founder Tom Robinson has also said that they can not confirm if all of these wallets belong to the IRGC, and they only contain a fraction of the money that moved through them.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajesh-agrawal-india-us-trade-negotiator-profile-1758012761187">Rajesh Agrawal: Meet India's chief trade negotiator leading talks with US</a><h2>Previous IRGC crypto activity&nbsp;</h2>The Blockchain tracking firm Elliptic had been tracking the IRGC's crypto-related activity for years. In June 2025, Pro-Israel stole over $90 million from the Iranian crypto exchange Nobitex. Nobitex had been used by the sanctioned IRGC operatives to funnel money for an alleged terrorist operation.&nbsp;In December 2024, the US Treasury Department added wallets worth $332 million in USDT linked to Sa’id Ahmad Muhammad al-Jamal, who is accused of funnelling money to Houthi militant groups. Last Week, the US Justice Department seized $584,741 in USDTan Iranian national, Mohammad Abedini, who is allegedly responsible for the manufacture of navigation systems with the possibility of being used in the IRGC's military drone programme.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-foreign-companies-hyundai-lg-raid-1758006194353">Trump begs foreign companies to come back to US, as South Korea pushes to probe human rights violence in Hyundai raid</a><h2>What are the key issues?</h2>The issue is the attribution of ownership. It is not yet proven publicly that all 187 accounts are directly connected to the IRGC. Some may be intermediary wallets used by third parties. The Israel Defence Ministry accused them of using &nbsp;“for the perpetration of a severe terror crime as defined by the law”, but did not specify what sort of activity or the trail of the funnelled money to those activities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-safran-7billion-amca-jet-engine-deal-400-units-1757692121886">India, Safran to develop 120 kN AMCA engine with $7 billion investment, 400 units planned</a>

Israel's Defence Ministry on Monday released a statement to announce the seizure of crypto wallets allegedly linked to the IRGC, and used that money for severe terror activity.

Israel's Ministry of Defence announced the seizure of 187 crypto wallets worth $1.5 million. According to the Ministry's National Bureau for Counter Terror Financing (NBCTF), these accounts are linked to officials of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It said that it was sure that these accounts are "used for the perpetration of a severe terror crime.” The IRGC is designated a terrorist organisation in the United States, the United Kingdom and Israel. These addresses have transmitted $1.5 billion in Tether's stablecoin USDT. Epileptic's Co-founder Tom Robinson has also said that they can not confirm if all of these wallets belong to the IRGC, and they only contain a fraction of the money that moved through them. Also Read: Rajesh Agrawal: Meet India's chief trade negotiator leading talks with US Previous IRGC crypto activity The Blockchain tracking firm Elliptic had been tracking the IRGC's crypto-related activity for years. In June 2025, Pro-Israel stole over $90 million from the Iranian crypto exchange Nobitex. Nobitex had been used by the sanctioned IRGC operatives to funnel money for an alleged terrorist operation. In December 2024, the US Treasury Department added wallets worth $332 million in USDT linked to Sa’id Ahmad Muhammad al-Jamal, who is accused of funnelling money to Houthi militant groups. Last Week, the US Justice Department seized $584,741 in USDTan Iranian national, Mohammad Abedini, who is allegedly responsible for the manufacture of navigation systems with the possibility of being used in the IRGC's military drone programme. Also Read: Trump begs foreign companies to come back to US, as South Korea pushes to probe human rights violence in Hyundai raid What are the key issues? The issue is the attribution of ownership. It is not yet proven publicly that all 187 accounts are directly connected to the IRGC. Some may be intermediary wallets used by third parties. The Israel Defence Ministry accused them of using “for the perpetration of a severe terror crime as defined by the law”, but did not specify what sort of activity or the trail of the funnelled money to those activities. Also Read: India, Safran to develop 120 kN AMCA engine with $7 billion investment, 400 units planned

Israel's Defence Ministry on Monday released a statement to announce the seizure of crypto wallets allegedly linked to the IRGC, and used that money for severe terror activity.

Israel seizes crypto wallets linked to IRGC used for funnelling $1.5 billion

The Israel-Iran war has seen some of the most high-profile assassinations in recent years, including top aides of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, commanders of the regular army and parallel military force IRGC, as well as several nuclear scientists. But in the blood-stained history of modern Iran, such assassinations and targeted killings are nothing new. Those killed include presidents and prime ministers, as well as military chiefs. The murders were carried out by the Iran regime, Iran's foreign enemies like Israel, or by groups opposed to the Islamic Republic. Here is a look at major assassinations in Iran since it achieved nationhood.<h2>Political assassinations linked to the Pahlavi Dynasty (1925–1979)</h2>Prime Minister Abdolhossein Hazhir was shot dead in Tehran on 4 November 1948 by a member of the Fada’iyan-e Islam, a radical Islamist group. The pro-West politician was killed for backing the monarchy and alleged foreign influence.&nbsp; Another Prime Minister Haj Ali Razmara was assassinated on 7 March 1951 outside the Baharestan Mosque in Tehran.&nbsp;The assassin was a member of the Fada’iyan-e Islam. The PM was killed for his secular policies and for holding talks with the British on nationalisation of Iran's oil. Prime Minister Amir-Abbas Hoveida,&nbsp;who had already faced an assassination attempt, was executed on 7 April 1979. Hoveida was a long-serving prime minister under the Shah regime, having been in the post from 1965 to 1977. After the Islamic Revolution of 1979, Hoveida was executed at the end of a summary trial by the Islamic Revolutionary Court. He was one of the many Pahlavi-era elites eliminated by the Islamic Republic regime. &nbsp;Shahriar Shafiq, a nephew of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and Naval officer, was shot dead in Paris on 7 December 1979. Later, an Iranian official claimed responsibility. This was an instance of how the Islamic Republic regime targeted loyalists of the Shah regime abroad. Shapour Bakhtiar, the last prime minister under the Shah, who was opposed to the Islamic Revolution, was also killed abroad. While living in exile, Baktiar was stabbed to death in Paris by Iranian intelligence operatives posing as businessmen, on 6 August 1991.<h2>Killings of key figures associated with Islamic Republic: The 1981 mayhem</h2>The killings of top leaders associated with the 1979 Islamic Revolution started as early as 1981. That year saw assassinations of at least four major figures, including a prime minister, a president and a chief justice. Notably, &nbsp;the same year saw an assassination attempt on Ali Khamenei, then a presidential candidate, but he survived. &nbsp;Mohammad Beheshti, the Chief Justice under the Islamic Republic, was killed in a bombing on 28 June 1981 at the Islamic Republic Party headquarters in Tehran. The People’s Mujahedin of Iran or MEK was behind the attack that also killed 70 other high-ranking officials. Beheshti was a key figure in establishing the judiciary of the Islamic Republic.<h2>A single bombing that wiped out the political leaders of Iran</h2>One of the most high-profile attacks that caused multiple assassinations was a bombing of the presidential office in Tehran on 30 August 1981. The blast killed President Mohammad Ali Rajai,&nbsp;Prime Minister Mohammad Javad Bahonar and Colonel Vahid Dastjardi, the head of the national police. The MEK was responsible for the attack that targeted the regime’s leadership. Bahonar, a cleric, was a key ideologue of the Islamic Republic, while Dastjardi was a senior security official, making him among the first military-related targets of the Islamic Republic. Ali Sayad Shirazi, Chief Commander of the Army was shot dead on 10 April 1999 outside his home in Tehran by an MEK operative. Shirazi was a key military figure during the Iran-Iraq War, serving as the deputy chief of the General Staff when he was killed.<h2>Iranian regime's ‘chain murders’ targeting intellectuals and secularists</h2>The Islamic Republic regime targeted many dissidents and intellectuals opposed to the regime in the 1980s and 90s. Most prominent among these was the ‘chain murders’ of 1998. These were targeted killings of secular activists orchestrated by Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence. &nbsp;Among the victims was Dariush Forouhar, Minister of Labor under Pahlavi era, &nbsp;killed on 22 November 1998 along with his wife. The couple was stabbed to death at their home in Tehran.<h2> The military chiefs taken out from 2020 to 2024</h2>The killings of military leaders of Iran were among the top priorities of its enemies, particularly Israel and the US. The most prominent among these is Qasem Soleimani, the commander of IRGC's Quds Force. On 3 January 2020, he was assassinated in a US drone strike near Baghdad International Airport in Iraq. Soleimani was not just another military official: he was an awe-inspiring leader of Iran who played a major role in regional operations that included training and arming anti-Israel militant groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. Soleimani was targeted by the US administration of Donald Trump during his first term in office, with reported help from Israel.&nbsp; &nbsp;On 1 April, 2024, Israel conducted an air strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, killing Mohammad Reza Zahedi, the commander of IRGC's Quds Force. Zahedi was a senior commander overseeing IRGC operations in Syria and Lebanon, and the highest-ranking IRGC officer killed since Soleimani.<h2> Wiped out: Top leaders and military officials killed in the June 2025 Israeli strikes on Iran</h2>Numerous senior officials, both political and military chiefs, were killed during the first days of Israel's military offensive against Iran. They were killed between June 13, when the operation started, and June 15. Among the political figures, the most prominent to have been killed was Ali Shamkhani, senior Adviser to Supreme Leader. Shamkhani was a former IRGC Navy commander who served as national security chief in 2013–2023. He was also a top nuclear negotiator of Iran. Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Tehran during the ongoing Operation Rising Lion. Bagheri was the highest-ranking military official under Supreme Leader Khamenei, and had coordinated operations of Iran’s regular armed forces and the IRGC. The same Israeli attack also killed Hossein Salami, the IRGC Commander-in-Chief. Salami was a &nbsp;major general leading the IRGC since 2019. Gholamali Rashid, Commander of Khatam-al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, was another military leader killed in the Israeli offensive in Tehran. The major general used to coordinate joint military operations between the IRGC and the regular army. Amir Ali Hajizadeh, IRGC Aerospace Force Commander who oversaw Iran’s ballistic missile and drone programmes, was also killed in the Israeli airstrike. &nbsp;He was among the architects of Iranian attacks on Israel in 2024, in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Mohammad Kazemi, IRGC Intelligence Chief was killed in the Israeli airstrike in Tehran on June 15, along with Hassan Mohaqiq, IRGC Intelligence Deputy Chief.&nbsp;Mohsen Bagheri, IRGC Intelligence Officer,&nbsp; was also killed in the same airstrike.&nbsp;Gholamreza Mehrabi, Deputy Intelligence Chief of Armed Forces , Mehdi Rabbani, Deputy Commander of Operations for Armed Forces, Davood Sheikhian, Air Defense Commander, and Khosro Hassani, Deputy Intelligence Chief of IRGC Aerospace Unit were all killed in Israeli air strikes on 13 June.&nbsp; Those killed by Israel this month were key figures of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's inner circle. There is talk in the international media that Khamenei himself might soon become a target of assassination. That, if it happens, would be the most high-profile assassination in the blood-stained history of modern-day Iran.

Story of modern Iran is pockmarked by assassinations of political and military leaders, intellectuals, activists and dissidents inside the country and abroad. 

The Israel-Iran war has seen some of the most high-profile assassinations in recent years, including top aides of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, commanders of the regular army and parallel military force IRGC, as well as several nuclear scientists. But in the blood-stained history of modern Iran, such assassinations and targeted killings are nothing new. Those killed include presidents and prime ministers, as well as military chiefs. The murders were carried out by the Iran regime, Iran's foreign enemies like Israel, or by groups opposed to the Islamic Republic. Here is a look at major assassinations in Iran since it achieved nationhood. Political assassinations linked to the Pahlavi Dynasty (1925–1979) Prime Minister Abdolhossein Hazhir was shot dead in Tehran on 4 November 1948 by a member of the Fada’iyan-e Islam, a radical Islamist group. The pro-West politician was killed for backing the monarchy and alleged foreign influence. Another Prime Minister Haj Ali Razmara was assassinated on 7 March 1951 outside the Baharestan Mosque in Tehran. The assassin was a member of the Fada’iyan-e Islam. The PM was killed for his secular policies and for holding talks with the British on nationalisation of Iran's oil. Prime Minister Amir-Abbas Hoveida, who had already faced an assassination attempt, was executed on 7 April 1979. Hoveida was a long-serving prime minister under the Shah regime, having been in the post from 1965 to 1977. After the Islamic Revolution of 1979, Hoveida was executed at the end of a summary trial by the Islamic Revolutionary Court. He was one of the many Pahlavi-era elites eliminated by the Islamic Republic regime. Shahriar Shafiq, a nephew of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and Naval officer, was shot dead in Paris on 7 December 1979. Later, an Iranian official claimed responsibility. This was an instance of how the Islamic Republic regime targeted loyalists of the Shah regime abroad. Shapour Bakhtiar, the last prime minister under the Shah, who was opposed to the Islamic Revolution, was also killed abroad. While living in exile, Baktiar was stabbed to death in Paris by Iranian intelligence operatives posing as businessmen, on 6 August 1991. Killings of key figures associated with Islamic Republic: The 1981 mayhem The killings of top leaders associated with the 1979 Islamic Revolution started as early as 1981. That year saw assassinations of at least four major figures, including a prime minister, a president and a chief justice. Notably, the same year saw an assassination attempt on Ali Khamenei, then a presidential candidate, but he survived. Mohammad Beheshti, the Chief Justice under the Islamic Republic, was killed in a bombing on 28 June 1981 at the Islamic Republic Party headquarters in Tehran. The People’s Mujahedin of Iran or MEK was behind the attack that also killed 70 other high-ranking officials. Beheshti was a key figure in establishing the judiciary of the Islamic Republic. A single bombing that wiped out the political leaders of Iran One of the most high-profile attacks that caused multiple assassinations was a bombing of the presidential office in Tehran on 30 August 1981. The blast killed President Mohammad Ali Rajai, Prime Minister Mohammad Javad Bahonar and Colonel Vahid Dastjardi, the head of the national police. The MEK was responsible for the attack that targeted the regime’s leadership. Bahonar, a cleric, was a key ideologue of the Islamic Republic, while Dastjardi was a senior security official, making him among the first military-related targets of the Islamic Republic. Ali Sayad Shirazi, Chief Commander of the Army was shot dead on 10 April 1999 outside his home in Tehran by an MEK operative. Shirazi was a key military figure during the Iran-Iraq War, serving as the deputy chief of the General Staff when he was killed. Iranian regime's ‘chain murders’ targeting intellectuals and secularists The Islamic Republic regime targeted many dissidents and intellectuals opposed to the regime in the 1980s and 90s. Most prominent among these was the ‘chain murders’ of 1998. These were targeted killings of secular activists orchestrated by Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence. Among the victims was Dariush Forouhar, Minister of Labor under Pahlavi era, killed on 22 November 1998 along with his wife. The couple was stabbed to death at their home in Tehran. The military chiefs taken out from 2020 to 2024 The killings of military leaders of Iran were among the top priorities of its enemies, particularly Israel and the US. The most prominent among these is Qasem Soleimani, the commander of IRGC's Quds Force. On 3 January 2020, he was assassinated in a US drone strike near Baghdad International Airport in Iraq. Soleimani was not just another military official: he was an awe-inspiring leader of Iran who played a major role in regional operations that included training and arming anti-Israel militant groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. Soleimani was targeted by the US administration of Donald Trump during his first term in office, with reported help from Israel. On 1 April, 2024, Israel conducted an air strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, killing Mohammad Reza Zahedi, the commander of IRGC's Quds Force. Zahedi was a senior commander overseeing IRGC operations in Syria and Lebanon, and the highest-ranking IRGC officer killed since Soleimani. Wiped out: Top leaders and military officials killed in the June 2025 Israeli strikes on Iran Numerous senior officials, both political and military chiefs, were killed during the first days of Israel's military offensive against Iran. They were killed between June 13, when the operation started, and June 15. Among the political figures, the most prominent to have been killed was Ali Shamkhani, senior Adviser to Supreme Leader. Shamkhani was a former IRGC Navy commander who served as national security chief in 2013–2023. He was also a top nuclear negotiator of Iran. Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Tehran during the ongoing Operation Rising Lion. Bagheri was the highest-ranking military official under Supreme Leader Khamenei, and had coordinated operations of Iran’s regular armed forces and the IRGC. The same Israeli attack also killed Hossein Salami, the IRGC Commander-in-Chief. Salami was a major general leading the IRGC since 2019. Gholamali Rashid, Commander of Khatam-al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, was another military leader killed in the Israeli offensive in Tehran. The major general used to coordinate joint military operations between the IRGC and the regular army. Amir Ali Hajizadeh, IRGC Aerospace Force Commander who oversaw Iran’s ballistic missile and drone programmes, was also killed in the Israeli airstrike. He was among the architects of Iranian attacks on Israel in 2024, in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Mohammad Kazemi, IRGC Intelligence Chief was killed in the Israeli airstrike in Tehran on June 15, along with Hassan Mohaqiq, IRGC Intelligence Deputy Chief. Mohsen Bagheri, IRGC Intelligence Officer, was also killed in the same airstrike. Gholamreza Mehrabi, Deputy Intelligence Chief of Armed Forces , Mehdi Rabbani, Deputy Commander of Operations for Armed Forces, Davood Sheikhian, Air Defense Commander, and Khosro Hassani, Deputy Intelligence Chief of IRGC Aerospace Unit were all killed in Israeli air strikes on 13 June. Those killed by Israel this month were key figures of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's inner circle. There is talk in the international media that Khamenei himself might soon become a target of assassination. That, if it happens, would be the most high-profile assassination in the blood-stained history of modern-day Iran.

Modern Iran's history is pockmarked by assassinations of political and military leaders, intellectuals, activists and dissidents inside the country and abroad.&nbsp;

Assassination Nation: From PMs and presidents to military chiefs, modern Iran's story is marked by murders of its top leaders

Within the dark and intricate structure of the Islamic Republic of Iran's military and security establishment, four dominant forces constitute the strength of the state: the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), its special arm the Quds Force, the volunteer Basij militia, and the regular Iranian Army, also referred to as Artesh.&nbsp;Each has a separate origin, purpose, and command structure. Though all are nominally dedicated to the defense of Iran's sovereignty, their functions differ starkly in practice and ideology. Together, they create a layered and frequently overlapping system intended not only for external defense, but for survival of the regime, foreign manipulation, and domestic control.<h2>The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)</h2>Formed in the wake of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (Sepah-e Pasdaran-e Enqelab-e Islami) was founded by Ayatollah Khomeini to protect the revolution from internal as well as external enemies.&nbsp;&nbsp;It was intended as a balance against the old Iranian military, which the new regime worried would still be loyal to the Shah or Western philosophy.&nbsp;Unlike the Artesh, a professional and traditional military organisation, the IRGC is an ideologically motivated institution that owes its loyalty not to the government elected, but directly to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;Its role is to safeguard Islamic values, propagate Iran's revolutionary ideology, and guarantee the survival of the regime.&nbsp;Decades have seen the IRGC grow into a huge military-industrial complex. It has its own land forces, navy, aerospace unit (including Iran's missile program), intelligence unit, and cyber units. It economically dominates large sectors of the Iranian economy by means of front companies and state-sponsored foundations.&nbsp;It is politically rooted to a great extent. Large numbers of members of the executive and judicial branches as well as the parliament have been IRGC veterans, and the IRGC is responsible for formulating national strategy.<h2>Quds force</h2>As the premier extraterritorial force of the IRGC, the Quds Force (Sepah-e Qods) conducts foreign operations, clandestine activities, and proxy warfare.&nbsp;&nbsp;Its existence was formally recognised in the late 1980s, and its stature grew exponentially under General Qassem Soleimani, who died in a US drone attack in Baghdad in 2020.&nbsp;The Quds force has provided the mission of exporting Iran's ideological and strategic interests outside of its borders. It offers weapons, finance, and training to a broad range of non-state actors and militant groups all across the Middle East, ranging from Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Palestine, Shia militias in Iraq, the Houthis in Yemen, and pro-Assad forces in Syria.&nbsp;With a history of strategic patience and asymmetric warfare, the Quds Force works through diplomatic covers, local militias, and covert networks. It is both a foreign policy instrument and a military force, combining intelligence operations with presence on the battlefield.<h2>Basij</h2>Basij, or Basij-e Mostaz'afin ("Mobilization of the Oppressed"), is an IRGC-controlled paramilitary volunteer militia.&nbsp;&nbsp;Established in 1979 by the directive of Khomeini, the Basij was instrumental in the Iran-Iraq War, where thousands of Basij members were involved in human-wave attacks.&nbsp;Nowadays, the Basij acts as an interior security force, responsible for policing moral behavior, repressing dissent, surveillance over universities and neighborhoods, and enlisting regime support.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is highly integrated into civilian society, with units in schools, mosques, factories, and government departments.&nbsp;In times of civil unrest—like the 2009 Green Movement protests and the nationwide protests in recent years—the Basij are usually the first line of response from the regime, making arrests, infiltrating demonstrations, and cracking down on crowds.&nbsp;Though less heavily armed than regular army units, the Basij have strength in numbers, ideological indoctrination, and widespread grassroots presence. It also serves as a social control mechanism and vehicle for political mobilisation during election times.<h2>Artesh</h2>Officially referred to as the Artesh-e Jomhouri-ye Eslami-ye Iran, the Artesh is Iran's regular army, existing before the revolution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Comprising four branches, they include Ground Forces, Air Force, Navy, and Air Defense. Following the revolution, the Artesh was suspicious to the clerical leadership and was purposefully undermined in favor of the IRGC.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nevertheless, it continued to be the primary line of defense against conventional military threats, especially on Iran's borders and in the Persian Gulf.&nbsp;In contrast to the IRGC, the Artesh is considered more professional and apolitical, with little role in Iran's internal politics or foreign escapades. It has fewer economic assets and is more dependent on the Ministry of Defense.&nbsp;&nbsp;As much less ideologically charged, it is hampered by older equipment and limited modernization for decades of sanctions. The Artesh is also responsible for disaster relief, logistics, and border control operations, and frequently works together with the IRGC on large exercises, although tensions between the two branches continue.<h2>Conclusion</h2>Iran's military and security establishment is more than a defense establishment—it is a complex network of ideological, political, and coercive power intended to protect the Islamic Republic against all threats, foreign and domestic. The IRGC and related forces are the ideological core of the regime, while the Artesh fills conventional military roles.

Understanding Iran’s military structure: IRGC, Quds Force, Basij, and the Army. Who are they and what are their roles?

Within the dark and intricate structure of the Islamic Republic of Iran's military and security establishment, four dominant forces constitute the strength of the state: the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), its special arm the Quds Force, the volunteer Basij militia, and the regular Iranian Army, also referred to as Artesh. Each has a separate origin, purpose, and command structure. Though all are nominally dedicated to the defense of Iran's sovereignty, their functions differ starkly in practice and ideology. Together, they create a layered and frequently overlapping system intended not only for external defense, but for survival of the regime, foreign manipulation, and domestic control. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Formed in the wake of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (Sepah-e Pasdaran-e Enqelab-e Islami) was founded by Ayatollah Khomeini to protect the revolution from internal as well as external enemies. It was intended as a balance against the old Iranian military, which the new regime worried would still be loyal to the Shah or Western philosophy. Unlike the Artesh, a professional and traditional military organisation, the IRGC is an ideologically motivated institution that owes its loyalty not to the government elected, but directly to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Its role is to safeguard Islamic values, propagate Iran's revolutionary ideology, and guarantee the survival of the regime. Decades have seen the IRGC grow into a huge military-industrial complex. It has its own land forces, navy, aerospace unit (including Iran's missile program), intelligence unit, and cyber units. It economically dominates large sectors of the Iranian economy by means of front companies and state-sponsored foundations. It is politically rooted to a great extent. Large numbers of members of the executive and judicial branches as well as the parliament have been IRGC veterans, and the IRGC is responsible for formulating national strategy. Quds force As the premier extraterritorial force of the IRGC, the Quds Force (Sepah-e Qods) conducts foreign operations, clandestine activities, and proxy warfare. Its existence was formally recognised in the late 1980s, and its stature grew exponentially under General Qassem Soleimani, who died in a US drone attack in Baghdad in 2020. The Quds force has provided the mission of exporting Iran's ideological and strategic interests outside of its borders. It offers weapons, finance, and training to a broad range of non-state actors and militant groups all across the Middle East, ranging from Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Palestine, Shia militias in Iraq, the Houthis in Yemen, and pro-Assad forces in Syria. With a history of strategic patience and asymmetric warfare, the Quds Force works through diplomatic covers, local militias, and covert networks. It is both a foreign policy instrument and a military force, combining intelligence operations with presence on the battlefield. Basij Basij, or Basij-e Mostaz'afin ("Mobilization of the Oppressed"), is an IRGC-controlled paramilitary volunteer militia. Established in 1979 by the directive of Khomeini, the Basij was instrumental in the Iran-Iraq War, where thousands of Basij members were involved in human-wave attacks. Nowadays, the Basij acts as an interior security force, responsible for policing moral behavior, repressing dissent, surveillance over universities and neighborhoods, and enlisting regime support. It is highly integrated into civilian society, with units in schools, mosques, factories, and government departments. In times of civil unrest—like the 2009 Green Movement protests and the nationwide protests in recent years—the Basij are usually the first line of response from the regime, making arrests, infiltrating demonstrations, and cracking down on crowds. Though less heavily armed than regular army units, the Basij have strength in numbers, ideological indoctrination, and widespread grassroots presence. It also serves as a social control mechanism and vehicle for political mobilisation during election times. Artesh Officially referred to as the Artesh-e Jomhouri-ye Eslami-ye Iran, the Artesh is Iran's regular army, existing before the revolution. Comprising four branches, they include Ground Forces, Air Force, Navy, and Air Defense. Following the revolution, the Artesh was suspicious to the clerical leadership and was purposefully undermined in favor of the IRGC. Nevertheless, it continued to be the primary line of defense against conventional military threats, especially on Iran's borders and in the Persian Gulf. In contrast to the IRGC, the Artesh is considered more professional and apolitical, with little role in Iran's internal politics or foreign escapades. It has fewer economic assets and is more dependent on the Ministry of Defense. As much less ideologically charged, it is hampered by older equipment and limited modernization for decades of sanctions. The Artesh is also responsible for disaster relief, logistics, and border control operations, and frequently works together with the IRGC on large exercises, although tensions between the two branches continue. Conclusion Iran's military and security establishment is more than a defense establishment—it is a complex network of ideological, political, and coercive power intended to protect the Islamic Republic against all threats, foreign and domestic. The IRGC and related forces are the ideological core of the regime, while the Artesh fills conventional military roles.

Iran's military and security establishment is more than a defense establishment—it is a complex network of ideological, political, and coercive power intended to protect the Islamic Republic against all threats, foreign and domestic.

Israel's attack on Iran, targeting its top military and government officials, nuclear facilities and scientists on Friday (June 13) has placed the global focus back on the Shia Islamic Republic. With several top military and political leaders killed, one wonders who really runs the show in Iran. In the unique theocratic republic, the power is centred around a handful of people, mostly those linked to the Islamic Revolution of 1978-79. The military is also led by those with links to the Islamic Revolution. The governance system is a blend of Islamic theocracy, with a limited democracy overseen by the clerics.&nbsp; Iran's governance structure has its base in Islamic Revolution leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s doctrine of velayat-e faqih or Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist. This system gives the ultimate authority to clerics, led by the Supreme Leader.&nbsp;&nbsp;The complex web of power has both elected and unelected officials running the country, with critics saying that democracy is a sham, as the political leadership including the president is screened by various clerical bodies.&nbsp; Here is the Islamic Republic of Iran's government, explained: &nbsp;<h2>Supreme Leader &nbsp;</h2>The Iranian Supreme Leader or ‘Rahbar’ is the head of state, and the highest authority of both politics and religion. It's a role with near absolute power over all branches of government, military, judiciary, and state media. Supreme leaders are appointed for life by the Assembly of Experts, the only body to whom he is accountable.&nbsp; Office of the Supreme Leader supervises the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government.&nbsp; Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the current supreme leader, is the final deciding authority on foreign policy, economy and security. &nbsp;Khamenei is also the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, including the IRGC or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its Basij militia. The supreme leader appoints the heads of the judiciary, state media, military, and half of the Guardian Council members. &nbsp;He also controls economic entities like charitable trusts worth billions of dollars, making his office financially independent.&nbsp;The supreme leader supervises the Guardian Council, which vets electoral candidates and legislation. He issues fatwas or decrees, can veto legislations, declare war or peace, and pardon convicts. The supreme leader has a netwok of delegates who enforce his will across the government. Khamenei is only the second supreme leader of Iran, having succeeded Khomeini in 1989. He can be in office till death.&nbsp;<h2>Iranian president &nbsp;</h2>The President is Iran's head of government and the highest elected official, but is subordinate to the Supreme Leader, who must approve his appointment and can dismiss him.&nbsp; Masoud Pezeshkian is the current president of Iran. The president , though elected by people for a four-year-term, has only limited powers. The president is responsible for domestic policy, planning the econmy, and some aspects of foreign policy. The president can hold two consecutive terms. &nbsp;<h2>Assembly of Experts &nbsp;</h2>The Assembly of Experts is an 88-member group of Islamic jurists elected by popular vote every eight years. The assembly selects and supervises the supreme leader. Theoretically, it can also dismiss the supreme leader, but such a thing has never happened.&nbsp; Candiates for the Assembly of Experts are selected by the Guardian Council. Currently, &nbsp;Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati chairs the Assembly of Experts, whose roles include monitoring the Supreme Leader's performance and choosing his successor. It's largely a ceremonial group of regime loyalists with not much actual power. &nbsp;<h2>Guardian Council &nbsp;</h2>The Guardian Council is yet another Islamic jurist body whose main role is the selection and vetting of candidates for elections. The 12-member body is currently chaired by Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, who also leads the Assembly of Experts. &nbsp;The Guardian Council has veto power over laws, and can disqualify election candidates, which it had done in the past to keep out reformists from contesting elections. The supreme leader appoints half of the Guardian Council, while the six other lawyers are nominated by the judiciary and approved by parliament.&nbsp;The council screens candidates for key posts like the president, legislature, and Assembly of Experts, and has the power to shape election outcomes. The Guardian Council is the interpreter of the constitution. It has traditionally been dominated by hardliners.<h2>Expediency Council</h2>The Expediency Council is yet another layer of authority in the Iranian system. Its main roles are the resolution of disputes between the Guardian Council and parliament.&nbsp;&nbsp;It advises the supreme leader on policy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Expediency Council members are appointed by the supreme leader for five-year terms.&nbsp;&nbsp;Currently chaired by Ayatollah Amoli Larijani, the Expediency Council mediates legislative disagreements. In practice, it has sided with the Guardian Council in such matters.&nbsp;<h2> Islamic Consultative Assembly or Majlis, the Iranian parliament</h2>The Majlis, Iran’s unicameral parliament, has 290 members who are elected by the people every four years. While Majlis, like any other parliament, drafts legislation and approves the budget, its powers are limited by a variety of actors like the Supreme Leader, the Guardian Council and the Expediency Council. &nbsp;<h2>Iranian Judiciary &nbsp;</h2>Iran has a judiciary which is not seen as independent, as it is controlled by the Supreme Leader. The chief justice is appointed by the supreme leader. The judiciary's main role is to enforce Islamic law and oversee courts.&nbsp; In practice, critics of the judiciary see it as an instrument of political repression. It also operates a Special Clerical Court, which prosecutes dissident clerics and reports directly to the supreme leader.<h2>The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps or IRGC &nbsp;</h2>While Iran does have a regular military known as Artesh, much of the defence power is with IRGC, a paramilitary that rose out of the Islamic Revolution. IRGC is tasked with managing internal security through the powerful Basij militia and intelligence units, and expanding Iran's regional influence. As its name implies, it is supposed to protect the principles of the Islamic Revolution.&nbsp;&nbsp;IRGC answers directly to the supreme leader and controls significant economic assets. Its Quds Force, responsible for external operations, is accused of arming and training anti-Israel militia groups like Hamas, Hezbollah and Houthis. Its current Commander-in-Chief, Maj Gen Hossein Salami, was killed in Friday's Israeli attack. Chief of General Staff Maj Gen Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, who oversees the coordination of IRGC and the regular army, was also killed.&nbsp;IRGC is thought to be controlling up to 30 per cent of Iran's economy, including its infrastructure and energy sectors. Significantly, IRGC also oversees the nuclear and missile programmes of Iran. IRGC is also deployed to suppress dissent, and protests like the 2022 anti-veil movement after the death of Mahsa Amini.<h2>Supreme National Security Council &nbsp;</h2>This is the body that coordinates defence and foreign policy of Iran. The Security Council is chaired by the president but dominated by the Supreme Leader’s appointees. &nbsp;The security council formulates national security and foreign policy, which have to be approved by the supreme leader.&nbsp;&nbsp;Members of the council include &nbsp;the IRGC commander, foreign minister, and the intelligence minister. &nbsp;

In the unique theocratic republic, the power is centred around a handful of people, mostly linked to the Islamic Revolution of 1978-79. The governance system blends Islamic jurisprudence with limited democracy overseen by the clerics.

Israel's attack on Iran, targeting its top military and government officials, nuclear facilities and scientists on Friday (June 13) has placed the global focus back on the Shia Islamic Republic. With several top military and political leaders killed, one wonders who really runs the show in Iran. In the unique theocratic republic, the power is centred around a handful of people, mostly those linked to the Islamic Revolution of 1978-79. The military is also led by those with links to the Islamic Revolution. The governance system is a blend of Islamic theocracy, with a limited democracy overseen by the clerics. Iran's governance structure has its base in Islamic Revolution leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s doctrine of velayat-e faqih or Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist. This system gives the ultimate authority to clerics, led by the Supreme Leader. The complex web of power has both elected and unelected officials running the country, with critics saying that democracy is a sham, as the political leadership including the president is screened by various clerical bodies. Here is the Islamic Republic of Iran's government, explained: Supreme Leader The Iranian Supreme Leader or ‘Rahbar’ is the head of state, and the highest authority of both politics and religion. It's a role with near absolute power over all branches of government, military, judiciary, and state media. Supreme leaders are appointed for life by the Assembly of Experts, the only body to whom he is accountable. Office of the Supreme Leader supervises the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the current supreme leader, is the final deciding authority on foreign policy, economy and security. Khamenei is also the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, including the IRGC or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its Basij militia. The supreme leader appoints the heads of the judiciary, state media, military, and half of the Guardian Council members. He also controls economic entities like charitable trusts worth billions of dollars, making his office financially independent. The supreme leader supervises the Guardian Council, which vets electoral candidates and legislation. He issues fatwas or decrees, can veto legislations, declare war or peace, and pardon convicts. The supreme leader has a netwok of delegates who enforce his will across the government. Khamenei is only the second supreme leader of Iran, having succeeded Khomeini in 1989. He can be in office till death. Iranian president The President is Iran's head of government and the highest elected official, but is subordinate to the Supreme Leader, who must approve his appointment and can dismiss him. Masoud Pezeshkian is the current president of Iran. The president , though elected by people for a four-year-term, has only limited powers. The president is responsible for domestic policy, planning the econmy, and some aspects of foreign policy. The president can hold two consecutive terms. Assembly of Experts The Assembly of Experts is an 88-member group of Islamic jurists elected by popular vote every eight years. The assembly selects and supervises the supreme leader. Theoretically, it can also dismiss the supreme leader, but such a thing has never happened. Candiates for the Assembly of Experts are selected by the Guardian Council. Currently, Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati chairs the Assembly of Experts, whose roles include monitoring the Supreme Leader's performance and choosing his successor. It's largely a ceremonial group of regime loyalists with not much actual power. Guardian Council The Guardian Council is yet another Islamic jurist body whose main role is the selection and vetting of candidates for elections. The 12-member body is currently chaired by Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, who also leads the Assembly of Experts. The Guardian Council has veto power over laws, and can disqualify election candidates, which it had done in the past to keep out reformists from contesting elections. The supreme leader appoints half of the Guardian Council, while the six other lawyers are nominated by the judiciary and approved by parliament. The council screens candidates for key posts like the president, legislature, and Assembly of Experts, and has the power to shape election outcomes. The Guardian Council is the interpreter of the constitution. It has traditionally been dominated by hardliners. Expediency Council The Expediency Council is yet another layer of authority in the Iranian system. Its main roles are the resolution of disputes between the Guardian Council and parliament. It advises the supreme leader on policy. Expediency Council members are appointed by the supreme leader for five-year terms. Currently chaired by Ayatollah Amoli Larijani, the Expediency Council mediates legislative disagreements. In practice, it has sided with the Guardian Council in such matters. Islamic Consultative Assembly or Majlis, the Iranian parliament The Majlis, Iran’s unicameral parliament, has 290 members who are elected by the people every four years. While Majlis, like any other parliament, drafts legislation and approves the budget, its powers are limited by a variety of actors like the Supreme Leader, the Guardian Council and the Expediency Council. Iranian Judiciary Iran has a judiciary which is not seen as independent, as it is controlled by the Supreme Leader. The chief justice is appointed by the supreme leader. The judiciary's main role is to enforce Islamic law and oversee courts. In practice, critics of the judiciary see it as an instrument of political repression. It also operates a Special Clerical Court, which prosecutes dissident clerics and reports directly to the supreme leader. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps or IRGC While Iran does have a regular military known as Artesh, much of the defence power is with IRGC, a paramilitary that rose out of the Islamic Revolution. IRGC is tasked with managing internal security through the powerful Basij militia and intelligence units, and expanding Iran's regional influence. As its name implies, it is supposed to protect the principles of the Islamic Revolution. IRGC answers directly to the supreme leader and controls significant economic assets. Its Quds Force, responsible for external operations, is accused of arming and training anti-Israel militia groups like Hamas, Hezbollah and Houthis. Its current Commander-in-Chief, Maj Gen Hossein Salami, was killed in Friday's Israeli attack. Chief of General Staff Maj Gen Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, who oversees the coordination of IRGC and the regular army, was also killed. IRGC is thought to be controlling up to 30 per cent of Iran's economy, including its infrastructure and energy sectors. Significantly, IRGC also oversees the nuclear and missile programmes of Iran. IRGC is also deployed to suppress dissent, and protests like the 2022 anti-veil movement after the death of Mahsa Amini. Supreme National Security Council This is the body that coordinates defence and foreign policy of Iran. The Security Council is chaired by the president but dominated by the Supreme Leader’s appointees. The security council formulates national security and foreign policy, which have to be approved by the supreme leader. Members of the council include the IRGC commander, foreign minister, and the intelligence minister.

In the unique theocratic republic, the power is centred around a handful of people, mostly linked to the Islamic Revolution of 1978-79. The governance system blends Islamic jurisprudence with limited democracy overseen by the clerics.

Supreme Leader, IRGC, Guardian Council or Army - Who really runs Iran? Islamic Republic's complex web of power, explained

The devastating efficiency of combat drones in modern warfare has rewritten military doctrines worldwide. From Ukraine's fields to West Asia, these inexpensive weapons have proven capable of neutralizing billion-dollar assets. Now, Iran aims to amplify this advantage with its groundbreaking drone carrier vessel that it is flaunting. Take a look at this report.

Iran's growing drone warfare capabilities

Iran's revolutionary guards unveil game-changing drone carrier

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy unveiled another underground missile base in the coastal areas of southern Iran. Watch this report for more details!

Iran: IRGC Chief takes tour of new missile city in a rare visit

Two Iran Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) members have died in a gyroplane crash near Pakistan border on Monday (Nov 4). The incident happened near Iran's southeastern province Sistan-Baluchistan's Sirkan city as reported by multiple news agencies and state TV as well.

The incident saw Brigadier General Hamid Mazandarani and his pilot Hamed Jandaqi die in&nbsp;the crash. They were in the area for a military operation, as per news agency Fars, which quoted IRGC Ground Force as the source.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-police-caught-punching-hitting-with-baton-hindu-temple-goers-amid-pro-khalistan-mob-attack-773191">Canadian police caught 'punching', 'hitting with baton' Hindu temple goers amid pro-Khalistan mob attack</a>

"Second Brigadier General Hamid Mazandarani, the commander of the Nineva Brigade of Golestan province, and his pilot, were martyred in this accident," reported the Reuters news agency.

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The deceased were part of IRGC Ground Force which has been conducting an anti-terrorism exercise named 'Martyrs of Security' in the province since November, reported Fars.

The ultra-light plane, which resembles a helicopter in rotor design but is smaller with capacity for two, crashed during a counterterrorism manoeuvre.

This incident occurs days after 10 Iranian law enforcement personnel were killed in an attack by 'miscreants' in the Gohar Kuh area of the province shortly after Israeli strikes targeting key military installations. &nbsp;

The Sistan and Baluchistan province houses a large number of people with Baluch ethnicity, a community that is split between Iran and Pakistan. Baluch people practise Sunni Islam, in contrast to Iran's Shia roots. The province often witnesses clashes between Iranian security forces and the Baluch militants.&nbsp;

The city of Sirkan has reportedly been the site of Iranian security forces, Sunni militants, and drug traffickers, said Reuters.

In other aviation incidents, Iran's president Ebrahim Raisi had also died in a plane crash in May. The Fars news agency, however, said that "aviation incidents are a rare sight in Iran."

(With inputs from agencies)

Two Iran Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) members have died in a gyroplane crash near Pakistan border on Monday (Nov 4). The incident happened near Iran's southeastern province Sistan-Baluchistan's Sirkan city as reported by multiple news agencies and state TV as well.

Two Iran Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) members have died in a gyroplane crash near Pakistan border on Monday (Nov 4). The incident happened near Iran's southeastern province Sistan-Baluchistan's Sirkan city as reported by multiple news agencies and state TV as well. The incident saw Brigadier General Hamid Mazandarani and his pilot Hamed Jandaqi die in the crash. They were in the area for a military operation, as per news agency Fars, which quoted IRGC Ground Force as the source. Also Read: Canadian police caught 'punching', 'hitting with baton' Hindu temple goers amid pro-Khalistan mob attack "Second Brigadier General Hamid Mazandarani, the commander of the Nineva Brigade of Golestan province, and his pilot, were martyred in this accident," reported the Reuters news agency. × The deceased were part of IRGC Ground Force which has been conducting an anti-terrorism exercise named 'Martyrs of Security' in the province since November, reported Fars. The ultra-light plane, which resembles a helicopter in rotor design but is smaller with capacity for two, crashed during a counterterrorism manoeuvre. This incident occurs days after 10 Iranian law enforcement personnel were killed in an attack by 'miscreants' in the Gohar Kuh area of the province shortly after Israeli strikes targeting key military installations. The Sistan and Baluchistan province houses a large number of people with Baluch ethnicity, a community that is split between Iran and Pakistan. Baluch people practise Sunni Islam, in contrast to Iran's Shia roots. The province often witnesses clashes between Iranian security forces and the Baluch militants. The city of Sirkan has reportedly been the site of Iranian security forces, Sunni militants, and drug traffickers, said Reuters. In other aviation incidents, Iran's president Ebrahim Raisi had also died in a plane crash in May. The Fars news agency, however, said that "aviation incidents are a rare sight in Iran." (With inputs from agencies)

Two Iranian military personnel die in plane crash during 'Martyrs of Security' exercise near Pakistan border

If 'leaked' US intelligence documents are to be believed, Israel will strike Iran in the coming days using air-launched missiles that would target Tehran's military facilities.

Israel has been reportedly planning a response to Iran after Tehran fired a volley of ballistic missiles at the Jewish nation on October 1&nbsp;following the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon on 27 September in an Israeli intelligence-led operation.

Watch:&nbsp;Iran-Israel War: What Are Israel's Targets In Iran?

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The purportedly&nbsp;leaked documents shared on the messaging app Telegram were dated 15-16 October and are alleged to contain the assessment of the US National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency on Israel's military plans.

The two documents were based on satellite imagery and other intelligence, with very specific details of Israeli preparations, according to reports.&nbsp;

The US is investigating how the alleged intelligence documents got leaked online, which in itself is a possible proof that those are genuine, at least partially.

There is speculation that the documents were leaked deliberately to thwart Israel's plans.

The highly classified documents, marked 'Top Secret', could have been obtained through hacking by Iran.

Noting that President Joe Biden was "deeply concerned" about the leak, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said on Monday (Oct 21) that it was not yet determined if they were a result of a hack or a leak.

The whole thing is an embarrassment for the US, as the documents, if true, showed how Washington spies on its allies as much as its enemies.

The documents are being seen as genuine by analysts due to the presence of a bunch of code words and acronyms such as FGI and TK.&nbsp;

FGI &nbsp;means Foreign Government Intelligence and TK stands for Talent Keyhole, denoting satellite-based Signals Intelligence or SIGINT and Imagery Intelligence or IMINT, the BBC said in a report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israeli-pm-netanyahu-asked-my-opinion-about-what-to-do-with-iran-trump-769302">Also read: West Asia crisis | Israeli PM Netanyahu asked my opinion about what to do with Iran: Trump</a> 
 
The documents were possibly meant for the Five Eyes, the intelligence alliance of the US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

The plan's details were outed even as the US was trying to dissuade Israel from attacking oil facilities and nuclear installations of Iran, for fear of repercussions for global trade.

<h2>So, how will Israel's attack on Iran unfold as per alleged US intel documents?</h2>

The documents indicate that the Israeli Air Force would use long-range Air-Launched Ballistic Missiles or ABLMs on Iran.

These ABLMs were named in the documents as the Golden Horizon and Rocks systems.

Rocks system can be launched on targets both above and below ground.

Golden Horizon might be a reference to the Blue Sparrow missile system which has a range of around 2,000km, according to the BBC report.

The ABLMs may be chosen due to their capability to target Iran without having to fly over other countries in the region like Jordan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-dismantles-alleged-iran-spy-network-in-country-arrests-seven-citizens-769538">Also read: Israel dismantles Iran ‘spy network’ in country, arrests seven citizens</a> 
 
The attack might be a far greater version of its ABLM strike on Iran's radar site near Isfahan in April, as per analysts.

Contrary to the fears that Israel might hit oil facilities, the documents suggest it might strike Iran's military targets, though these targets were not named, nor the timing of the possible operation.

So if Tel Aviv will not target Iran's nuclear or energy facilities, the next possible option could be the military bases of the Iran &nbsp;Revolutionary Guards Corps or IRGC and its Basij militia.

IRGC and Basij are known to have trained and equipped Iran's proxies in West Asian countries like Iraq, Lebanon, Yemen and Syria, including Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthi rebels, who target Israel.

<h2>When will Israel attack Iran?</h2>

The timing of Israel's possible strike on&nbsp;Iran is still up in the air.&nbsp;

Iran itself had waited nearly two weeks to respond to an Israeli strike in Damascus, Syria, that killed some senior IRGC commanders in April.

There's fear in Washington that the Israeli strike any time before the US presidential election on November 5 would be damaging to the process. Israel could utilise the twilight zone between the two US presidencies to carry out the attack.

<h2>Will Iran- Israel conflict become a nuclear war?</h2>

The US documents do not mention any nuclear deterrent preparations from Israel.&nbsp;

This is significant as there's consternation in the US and international community that Iran may go nuclear on Israel.

Though officially still a non-nuclear nation that uses atomic energy for peaceful purposes, Iran has the capability to enrich uranium to weapons-grade as per Israeli assessments.&nbsp;

Israel is a nuclear power but does not publicly acknowledge it, and there's no certainty on the exact nature or number of its arsenal.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

If 'leaked' US intelligence documents are to be believed, Israel will strike Iran in the coming days using air-launched missiles that would target Tehran's military facilities.

If 'leaked' US intelligence documents are to be believed, Israel will strike Iran in the coming days using air-launched missiles that would target Tehran's military facilities. Israel has been reportedly planning a response to Iran after Tehran fired a volley of ballistic missiles at the Jewish nation on October 1 following the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon on 27 September in an Israeli intelligence-led operation. Watch: Iran-Israel War: What Are Israel's Targets In Iran? × The purportedly leaked documents shared on the messaging app Telegram were dated 15-16 October and are alleged to contain the assessment of the US National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency on Israel's military plans. The two documents were based on satellite imagery and other intelligence, with very specific details of Israeli preparations, according to reports. The US is investigating how the alleged intelligence documents got leaked online, which in itself is a possible proof that those are genuine, at least partially. There is speculation that the documents were leaked deliberately to thwart Israel's plans. The highly classified documents, marked 'Top Secret', could have been obtained through hacking by Iran. Noting that President Joe Biden was "deeply concerned" about the leak, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said on Monday (Oct 21) that it was not yet determined if they were a result of a hack or a leak. The whole thing is an embarrassment for the US, as the documents, if true, showed how Washington spies on its allies as much as its enemies. The documents are being seen as genuine by analysts due to the presence of a bunch of code words and acronyms such as FGI and TK. FGI means Foreign Government Intelligence and TK stands for Talent Keyhole, denoting satellite-based Signals Intelligence or SIGINT and Imagery Intelligence or IMINT, the BBC said in a report. Also read: West Asia crisis | Israeli PM Netanyahu asked my opinion about what to do with Iran: Trump The documents were possibly meant for the Five Eyes, the intelligence alliance of the US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The plan's details were outed even as the US was trying to dissuade Israel from attacking oil facilities and nuclear installations of Iran, for fear of repercussions for global trade. So, how will Israel's attack on Iran unfold as per alleged US intel documents? The documents indicate that the Israeli Air Force would use long-range Air-Launched Ballistic Missiles or ABLMs on Iran. These ABLMs were named in the documents as the Golden Horizon and Rocks systems. Rocks system can be launched on targets both above and below ground. Golden Horizon might be a reference to the Blue Sparrow missile system which has a range of around 2,000km, according to the BBC report. The ABLMs may be chosen due to their capability to target Iran without having to fly over other countries in the region like Jordan. Also read: Israel dismantles Iran ‘spy network’ in country, arrests seven citizens The attack might be a far greater version of its ABLM strike on Iran's radar site near Isfahan in April, as per analysts. Contrary to the fears that Israel might hit oil facilities, the documents suggest it might strike Iran's military targets, though these targets were not named, nor the timing of the possible operation. So if Tel Aviv will not target Iran's nuclear or energy facilities, the next possible option could be the military bases of the Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps or IRGC and its Basij militia. IRGC and Basij are known to have trained and equipped Iran's proxies in West Asian countries like Iraq, Lebanon, Yemen and Syria, including Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthi rebels, who target Israel. When will Israel attack Iran? The timing of Israel's possible strike on Iran is still up in the air. Iran itself had waited nearly two weeks to respond to an Israeli strike in Damascus, Syria, that killed some senior IRGC commanders in April. There's fear in Washington that the Israeli strike any time before the US presidential election on November 5 would be damaging to the process. Israel could utilise the twilight zone between the two US presidencies to carry out the attack. Will Iran- Israel conflict become a nuclear war? The US documents do not mention any nuclear deterrent preparations from Israel. This is significant as there's consternation in the US and international community that Iran may go nuclear on Israel. Though officially still a non-nuclear nation that uses atomic energy for peaceful purposes, Iran has the capability to enrich uranium to weapons-grade as per Israeli assessments. Israel is a nuclear power but does not publicly acknowledge it, and there's no certainty on the exact nature or number of its arsenal. (With inputs from agencies)

How will Israel attack Iran? Strike plan as revealed by documents leaked online

The US Justice Department on Friday unsealed criminal charges accusing three members of Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps of hacking Donald Trump's presidential campaign.

US: Three Members of IRGC Charged With Hacking Donald Trump's Campaign

Hamas’ top political leader Ismail Haniyeh has been killed in "a treacherous Zionist raid," according to Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard (IRGC). The news that broke Wednesday morning (Jul 31) is set to change the course of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in the Middle East.

The IRGC also confirmed the death of one of Haniyeh’s bodyguards who was also killed in the “raid”. But what does the IRGC have to do with Palestinian group Hamas’ leader, Haniyeh?&nbsp;

It is because Ismail Haniyeh was in Iran when the alleged assassination happened. He was in the capital Tehran on Tuesday, attending the inauguration ceremony of the country’s new president, Masoud Pezeskhian.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-faud-shukr-the-hezbollah-senior-terrorist-israel-claims-to-have-eliminated-in-beirut-745752">Who is Faud Shukr? The Hezbollah 'senior terrorist' Israel claims to have 'eliminated' in Beirut</a>

"The residence of Ismail Haniyeh, head of the political office of Hamas Islamic Resistance, was hit in Tehran, and as a result of this incident, him and one of his bodyguards were martyred," said the IRGC Sepah news website.

Here is the video of Haniyeh moments before the attack in Iran, hugging the new Iranian president Pezeskhian, who&nbsp;succeeded&nbsp;Iran’s eighth president Ebrahim Raisi&nbsp;recently killed in a helicopter crash in May 2024.

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At the inauguration of Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian today, he embraced and exchanged kisses with Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. 
 
Meanwhile, regime apologists in Washington have spent months trying to convince us that Pezeshkian is a “reformer.”<a href="https://t.co/0ZLrMNNRiF">pic.twitter.com/0ZLrMNNRiF</a>
— Sarah Raviani (@sarahraviani) <a href="https://twitter.com/sarahraviani/status/1818356759876321372?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Haniyeh also met the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei at his official residence.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hamas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hamas</a> chief <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsmailHaniyeh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IsmailHaniyeh</a>, who was killed in Tehran today, had met Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei hours before the attack <a href="https://t.co/jAqZu2R90q">pic.twitter.com/jAqZu2R90q</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1818498506283532601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The swearing-in ceremony was also attended by India, where Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari represented the country at the event.&nbsp;

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Haniya &amp; Indian minister Gadkari shared the stage yesterday at the swearing-in ceremony of New Iran President Pezeshkian <a href="https://t.co/1ijcjHeRgX">https://t.co/1ijcjHeRgX</a> <a href="https://t.co/0oFvutVWkV">pic.twitter.com/0oFvutVWkV</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1818508854818156831?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Hamas has also confirmed the death of Haniyeh and said that an Israeli airstrike killed the Hamas leader, but Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard has said it was investigating the attack and did not say how it occurred.

Haniyeh was appointed to the Hamas top job in 2017, as per reports. He moved between Turkey and Qatar's capital Doha, escaping the travel curbs of the blockaded Gaza Strip, acting as a negotiator in ceasefire talks with Israel and participating in talks with Hamas' ally Iran.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-leader-ismail-haniyeh-killed-in-tehran-irgc-confirms-fatal-attack-on-his-residence-745761">Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh killed in a ' treacherous Zionist raid' in Tehran: IRGC confirms fatal attack</a>

Haniyeh joined Hamas in 1987 when the group was founded amid the outbreak of the first Palestinian intifada, or uprising, against Israeli occupation, which lasted until 1993.

According to Hamas, as reported by Reuters, three of Haniyeh's sons—Hazem, Amir, and Mohammad—were killed on April 10 when an Israeli airstrike hit their car. Additionally, four of his grandchildren,&nbsp;three girls and one boy, also died in the attack.

More details are awaited.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas’ top political leader Ismail Haniyeh has been killed in "a treacherous Zionist raid," according to Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard (IRGC). The news that broke Wednesday morning (Jul 31) is set to change the course of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in the Middle East.

Hamas’ top political leader Ismail Haniyeh has been killed in "a treacherous Zionist raid," according to Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard (IRGC). The news that broke Wednesday morning (Jul 31) is set to change the course of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in the Middle East. The IRGC also confirmed the death of one of Haniyeh’s bodyguards who was also killed in the “raid”. But what does the IRGC have to do with Palestinian group Hamas’ leader, Haniyeh? It is because Ismail Haniyeh was in Iran when the alleged assassination happened. He was in the capital Tehran on Tuesday, attending the inauguration ceremony of the country’s new president, Masoud Pezeskhian. Also Read | Who is Faud Shukr? The Hezbollah 'senior terrorist' Israel claims to have 'eliminated' in Beirut "The residence of Ismail Haniyeh, head of the political office of Hamas Islamic Resistance, was hit in Tehran, and as a result of this incident, him and one of his bodyguards were martyred," said the IRGC Sepah news website. Here is the video of Haniyeh moments before the attack in Iran, hugging the new Iranian president Pezeskhian, who succeeded Iran’s eighth president Ebrahim Raisi recently killed in a helicopter crash in May 2024. At the inauguration of Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian today, he embraced and exchanged kisses with Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Meanwhile, regime apologists in Washington have spent months trying to convince us that Pezeshkian is a “reformer.”pic.twitter.com/0ZLrMNNRiF — Sarah Raviani (@sarahraviani) July 30, 2024 × Haniyeh also met the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei at his official residence. #BREAKING | #Hamas chief #IsmailHaniyeh, who was killed in Tehran today, had met Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei hours before the attack pic.twitter.com/jAqZu2R90q — WION (@WIONews) July 31, 2024 × The swearing-in ceremony was also attended by India, where Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari represented the country at the event. Haniya & Indian minister Gadkari shared the stage yesterday at the swearing-in ceremony of New Iran President Pezeshkian https://t.co/1ijcjHeRgX pic.twitter.com/0oFvutVWkV — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) July 31, 2024 × Hamas has also confirmed the death of Haniyeh and said that an Israeli airstrike killed the Hamas leader, but Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard has said it was investigating the attack and did not say how it occurred. Haniyeh was appointed to the Hamas top job in 2017, as per reports. He moved between Turkey and Qatar's capital Doha, escaping the travel curbs of the blockaded Gaza Strip, acting as a negotiator in ceasefire talks with Israel and participating in talks with Hamas' ally Iran. Also Read | Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh killed in a ' treacherous Zionist raid' in Tehran: IRGC confirms fatal attack Haniyeh joined Hamas in 1987 when the group was founded amid the outbreak of the first Palestinian intifada, or uprising, against Israeli occupation, which lasted until 1993. According to Hamas, as reported by Reuters, three of Haniyeh's sons—Hazem, Amir, and Mohammad—were killed on April 10 when an Israeli airstrike hit their car. Additionally, four of his grandchildren, three girls and one boy, also died in the attack. More details are awaited. (With inputs from agencies)

Moments before Hamas' top brass, Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Iran

Canada on Wednesday listed Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code after years of mounting pressure. Watch in for more details!

Canada puts Iran's IRGC on its terrorist list

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