Israeli Forces Target Iranian Commanders
On Saturday, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced the elimination of Behnam Shahryari, a senior commander with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), in a targeted strike in western Iran. Shahryari was reportedly responsible for the arms transfers from Iran to various Middle Eastern proxies.
The Israeli military also confirmed the death of another commander, identified as Saizadi, in a prior operation in QOM province. Katz stated that Saizadi led the Palestinian Legion, part of the Quds forces.
In a separate incident, Israeli forces targeted Shahryari during an overnight vehicle strike in western Tehran, marking a significant action as he was noted for overseeing the transfer of weapons to groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis in Yemen.
There was no immediate confirmation from Iranian authorities regarding the reported killings of the two commanders.
The Quds forces are known for creating the Axis of Resistance, fostering a network of Arab allies and establishing Hezbollah in Lebanon back in 1982, while also providing support to Hamas in Gaza. However, it seems the network has faced severe challenges over the past two years, particularly after intensified Israeli attacks since October 7, 2023, which have notably weakened both Palestinian factions and Hezbollah.
Israeli officials highlighted that Shahryari was linked to supplying missiles and rockets aimed at Israel, further emphasizing his role in the ongoing conflict.
Katz remarked on the significance of these operations, labeling the killing of such key figures as a major success for Israeli intelligence and military efforts. He also mentioned Izadi’s provision of funding to Hamas during their initial attacks and noted a connection between Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, especially following the events on October 7th.
