Claim of assassination in Tehran
Israel said on Wednesday it killed Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmaeil Khatib in an overnight strike in Tehran, according to Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz, in what would mark the latest assassination of a senior Iranian official.
Iran has not confirmed the claim so far.
Warning of further escalation
Katz said during a security assessment that “significant surprises are expected” across all fronts of the war, signalling a possible expansion of the conflict already affecting several parts of the Middle East.
He added that he and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had streamlined the decision-making process for targeting senior Iranian figures.
Authorisation to target Iranian officials
According to Katz, the Israeli government has given the military broader authority to act when intelligence opportunities arise.
“I have authorised the Israel Defense Forces to neutralise any senior Iranian official once an operational and intelligence opportunity arises – without the need for additional approval,” he said.
Ongoing regional conflict
The statement comes amid escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran, with tensions spreading across multiple fronts in the region.
Also read: Iran vows revenge as funeral is held for Ali Larijani
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