Israel claims Iranian intelligence minister killed in airstrike

By Ahmet Taş | Wise News Press

TEL AVIV, ISRAEL — Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz claimed that Iranian Intelligence Minister Ismail Khatib was killed in an overnight airstrike, signaling a major escalation in Middle Eastern tensions.

During an evaluation meeting with the Israeli military command, Katz announced a dramatic shift in operational rules, granting the army unrestricted authority to directly target senior Iranian officials without seeking prior political approval.

Overnight strike and assassination claim

According to Anadolu Agency (AA), Katz shared the outcomes of recent operations focusing on Iran and Lebanon during a gathering with top military officials. He asserted that Khatib died during the overnight bombardment targeting Tehran. While Iranian authorities have not yet officially confirmed the casualty, the statement marks a potential turning point that could severely disrupt the regional status quo.

Unlimited authority to strike

Declaring new rules of engagement against the Iranian leadership, Katz emphasized a critical shift in Israel's military procedures. Highlighting that the Tel Aviv administration has expanded its operational boundaries, the Defense Minister summarized the aggressive new stance:

"Together with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, we have given the Israeli army the authority to directly target any high-ranking Iranian official without the need for additional approval. No one in Iran has immunity anymore."

Risk of total regional war

Clearly stating that Israel will increase the intensity of its military actions, Katz underlined that operations will not be limited to Lebanon but will continue directly on Iranian soil. Hinting at a new wave of attacks planned for today, he warned that Israel has "significant surprises that will escalate the war," pushing the entire region closer to the brink of a full-scale conflict.

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