In a major escalation, Israel killed Iran’s War-Time Chief of Staff, Major General Ali Shadmani, during a precision airstrike on a command centre in Tehran. The strike marked the second time in recent weeks that Israel has eliminated one of Iran’s top generals.
Earlier, Israel had assassinated Alaa Ali Rashid, Shadmani’s predecessor, as part of Operation “Rising Lion.” Now, by targeting Shadmani, Israel has shown it is determined to disrupt Iran’s military leadership.
For the second time in 5 days— the IDF has eliminated Iran’s War-Time Chief of Staff, the regime’s top military commander.
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) June 17, 2025
Ali Shadmani, Iran’s senior-most military official and Khamenei’s closest military advisor, was killed in an IAF strike in central Tehran, following precise… pic.twitter.com/Bq6Z49zeCj
Target Was Iran’s Top Military Hub
According to Israeli intelligence, the IDF discovered a rare opportunity to hit a fully staffed Iranian command base. The target was the “Khatam al-Anbiya” Emergency Command Centre, which coordinates Iran’s military operations.
Under Shadmani’s leadership, this centre directed combat strategies and approved strikes against Israel and its allies. The airstrike, which took place on Tuesday night, was based on precise intelligence from the IDF Intelligence Directorate.
Shadmani Was a Key Figure in Iran’s Military
Just recently, Shadmani had been promoted to War-Time Chief of Staff and Commander of the Emergency Command. He was also in charge of both the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the regular Iranian army.
Because of this, he became the closest military aide to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Earlier, he had served as Deputy Commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya centre and as Head of the Operations Directorate for Iran’s military.
Israel’s Strategy Becomes Clear
With this second high-level assassination, Israel’s strategy has become more visible. It aims to weaken Iran’s military chain of command and reduce its ability to threaten the region.
At the same time, the move sends a message to Iran about the cost of continuing its nuclear and regional military ambitions.
Rising Tensions in the Region
As a result, Iran is expected to respond. This increases the risk of further military clashes. Moreover, the airstrike adds another layer to the complex power struggle in West Asia.
Israel’s targeted killings now signal a new phase in this shadow war, with broader consequences for regional and global security.