In a series of targeted strikes early Friday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reportedly eliminated two high-ranking Iranian generals, dealing a significant blow to Iran’s military leadership.

The operation, which Israel claims targeted Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure, resulted in the death of Gen. Hossein Salami, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Salami had a history of making threats against the U.S.

Also killed was Gen. Mohammad Bagheri, the chief of staff of the Iranian armed forces. His death intensifies the impact of the strike and its potential consequences for Iran’s military.

Reports indicate that at least 20 senior Iranian commanders, including Ali Hajizadeh, head of the IRGC Aerospace Force, were also killed in the attacks.

These deaths occurred during a large-scale operation by the IDF, dubbed “Operation Rising Lion.” The operation followed unsuccessful nuclear negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. Israel stated the strikes aimed to dismantle Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities.

Salami had been the commander-in-chief of the IRGC since 2019, appointed by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He oversaw Iran’s elite military force.

His appointment followed the U.S. withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal and the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization.

Salami’s involvement with the IRGC began during the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, where he progressed through the ranks to lead the IRGC’s air forces and eventually its entire command.

The IRGC, established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, has evolved into a powerful entity within Iran. It has transformed from a domestic security force into a transnational organization supporting Iranian allies in the Middle East, including Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq.

Operating independently from Iran’s conventional armed forces, the IRGC controls the country’s ballistic missile arsenal, which has been deployed against Israel during the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Control over Iran’s missile arsenal

Under Salami’s leadership, the IRGC expanded its influence as a transnational force, providing support to regional allies such as Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq.

The IRGC maintains control over Iran’s ballistic missiles, which have been used against Israel, particularly during the Israel-Hamas war.

Confrontational rhetoric

Salami was known for his aggressive statements against Israel and the United States, including calls for Israel’s destruction dating back to 2016.

Following the U.S. killing of Qassem Soleimani, the head of the IRGC’s elite Quds Force, in 2020, Salami promised retaliation. Iran subsequently launched missiles at U.S. bases in Iraq. He also threatened future reprisals against American and Israeli commanders.

Launched unprecedented strike

In response to the Israeli killing of seven Iranian generals in Syria, Salami ordered a large-scale attack involving more than 300 drones and missiles last year.

Bagheri had served as the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces since 2016, coordinating operations among the army, IRGC, and air defenses.

A veteran of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, he held various senior positions in intelligence and strategic command.

Intelligence power broker

Bagheri played a crucial role in shaping Iran’s military doctrine and spearheaded efforts to modernize its missile and air defense capabilities. He represented Iran in military coordination with allies like Russia and Syria, especially during joint operations in the Syrian Civil War.

As the architect of Iran’s strategic military posture, Bagheri was considered a high-value target by Israel for many years.