Israel has claimed it killed Esmail Khatib, Iran’s intelligence minister, in an overnight strike—marking the third high-profile Iranian figure targeted within 48 hours.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed the development, stating that more military action is imminent. “Significant surprises are expected throughout this day on all fronts,” Katz said, without offering further details.
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Iran has not officially confirmed Khatib’s death at the time of reporting.
Wave of High-Level Killings Intensifies Conflict
The latest strike follows Israel’s killing of senior Iranian figures, including Ali Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani, head of the Basij paramilitary force.
These targeted killings signal a shift toward direct attacks on Iran’s leadership structure, raising the stakes in the ongoing war.
In response, Iran has escalated its military operations, launching advanced multiple-warhead missiles toward Israel.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it deployed Khorramshahr-4 and Qadr missiles, designed to evade air defence systems by releasing multiple warheads mid-flight.
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Footage from impacted areas showed cluster-style dispersal before impact. Israeli authorities confirmed that at least two people were killed in Ramat Gan, near Tel Aviv.
Strikes Expand Across Gulf Nations
The conflict has widened significantly, with Iran launching strikes across key Gulf countries.
Targets included Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Explosions were reported near military installations and strategic sites, including areas close to Dubai. Interceptors were seen engaging incoming threats over urban zones.
Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that a projectile caused minor damage at a military base in the UAE, though no casualties were reported.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia intercepted a ballistic missile targeting the Prince Sultan Air Base and drones aimed at Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter.
Strait of Hormuz Tensions Raise Global Oil Concerns
Iran has continued exerting pressure on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route.
Although Tehran insists the waterway remains open, it has restricted access for the United States and allied countries, intensifying fears of a global energy crisis.
Oil markets have reacted sharply, with Brent crude prices remaining above $100 per barrel—reflecting a surge of over 40% since the conflict began.
IAEA Warns of Nuclear Risk After Bushehr Incident
The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed that a projectile struck near Iran’s Bushehr nuclear facility but caused no damage or injuries.
IAEA chief Rafael Grossi urged restraint, warning of escalation.
“Maximum restraint is essential to prevent the risk of a nuclear accident,” Grossi said.
Executions and Internal Strikes Add to Crisis
Inside Iran, authorities executed Kourosh Keyvani on charges of spying for Israel’s Mossad.
Separately, an airstrike on a courthouse complex in southern Iran reportedly killed at least eight people, highlighting the growing domestic impact of the conflict.
Lebanon Front Heats Up With Hezbollah Strikes
In Beirut, Israeli airstrikes targeted positions linked to Hezbollah, hitting residential buildings and killing multiple people.
Among the casualties was a journalist associated with Hezbollah’s Al-Manar TV, according to the broadcaster.
Israel said the strikes were aimed at financial and operational infrastructure used by the group, though independent verification remains limited.
The conflict, which began in late February, has rapidly expanded across multiple fronts.
Casualty figures continue to rise, with reports indicating significant losses in Iran, Israel, and Lebanon, alongside U.S. military casualties in the region.
Despite international concern, both sides appear committed to continued escalation, raising fears of a prolonged and wider regional war.
