Israeli Strikes Kill Senior IRGC Commanders Arming Hamas, Hezbollah in Iran

Israel has conducted multiple airstrikes targeting high-ranking IRGC Quds Force officials responsible for arming and financing Palestinian and regional proxy groups. Behnam Shahriyari, who led Unit 190 and oversaw the transfer of weapons and funds to groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis, was killed in western Iran, dealing a significant blow to Iran’s proxy rearmament capabilities. Additionally, Saeed Izadi, head of the Palestinian Division in the Quds Force, was killed in a strike on an apartment in Qom; he played a critical role in financing and arming Hamas ahead of the October 7 attacks and coordinating between Palestinian groups and Hezbollah. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz described these operations as major intelligence and military successes, emphasizing that Iran continues to prioritize funding terrorist activities despite its economic challenges. The strikes are part of a broader escalation between Israel and Iran, which also includes attacks near Iran’s nuclear facilities and ongoing missile exchanges, with Israel urging civilians in some cities to take shelter. Evacuation efforts, such as special flights for Indian students in Iran, are underway amid the intensifying conflict.