Israel Claims Strikes Killed 40 Senior Iranian Military Officials, Including Armed Forces Chief

The Israeli military has claimed that its latest strikes on Iran killed 40 senior Iranian military officials, including armed forces chief Abdolrahim Mousavi. Israel did not provide evidence to support the claim, and there was no immediate confirmation from Iran or the United States. The strikes were part of a joint U.S.–Israeli aerial bombardment targeting Iranian military and government facilities. Iranian state media confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, a development that could create a significant leadership vacuum in Tehran. Israeli military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said the operation expanded Israeli air superiority over Iran and thwarted multiple missile launchers allegedly prepared to strike Israel. US President Donald Trump described the operation as “heavy and pinpoint bombing,” warning it would continue as long as necessary.