Fire and smoke rise from a building, reportedly hit by a missile fired from Iran, in central Tel Aviv Credit: JACK GUEZ/AFP
A devastating Israeli attack on Iranian territory has resulted in the loss of at least 78 lives in the province of Tehran alone, with several Iranian media outlets reporting 329 injuries.
The attacks, which targeted military facilities and high-ranking officers, have sent shockwaves through the region.
*Attacks on military facilities*
The Israeli strikes hit multiple locations in Tehran, including the headquarters of the armed forces and other military facilities in western Tehran.
According to state media, the generals’ homes in affluent neighborhoods were also targeted.
At least 18 different locations in the capital were hit, with reports indicating that the attacks were precise and calculated.
The casualties include top military commanders, with reports confirming the deaths of Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Mohammad Bagheri, Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) Commander Hossein Salami, and Gholam-Ali Rashid, head of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters.
Six Iranian nuclear scientists, including Mohammad-Mehdi Tehranchi and Fereydoun Abbasi, were also killed in the attacks.
*New Military Appointments*
In response to the attacks, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei appointed new military commanders.
Abdolrahim Mousavi was named the new Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Mohammad Pakpour was appointed as the IRGC’s new commander, and Ali Shadmani was appointed to lead the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters.
Khamenei strongly condemned the attacks, warning that Israel would face “severe punishment” for what he called a crime against Iran.
The appointment of new military chiefs is seen as a strategic move to bolster Iran’s military capabilities and respond to the escalating situation.
Regional Implications
The Israeli attacks on Iran have significant implications for the region, with potential repercussions on the global stage. The situation remains volatile, and further escalation is possible. Iran’s response to the attacks and the appointment of new military chiefs will be closely watched by regional and international observers.
