US-Israel strike has resulted in the death of the IRGC intelligence chief, prompting Iran to issue a warning of potential ‘devastating’ retaliation
Iran issues a warning of “much more devastating” retaliation following the killing of the IRGC chief in a US-Israeli strike, heightening tensions in the region.
Iran has announced that Majid Khademi, the intelligence chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), was killed in a US-Israeli strike early Monday morning, with Israel subsequently claiming responsibility for the attack.
US President Donald Trump, in a pointed escalation, seemed to establish a deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by 20:00 ET on Tuesday (01:00 BST on Wednesday), while delivering a stark warning regarding Iranian infrastructure.
“Tuesday will be a day dedicated to both power plants and bridges in Iran.” There will be nothing else quite like it! Trump made statements that received widespread criticism for their tone and implications.
In response, Tehran warned of “much more devastating” retaliation, which indicates a further escalation in regional tensions that are already at a breaking point.
Our correspondent Lyse Doucet reports that “frantic, last-ditch diplomacy is accelerating,” although one insider warned that any substantial negotiations would necessitate a ceasefire first. The current situation regarding the ongoing discussions is unclear, as there are mixed messages coming from various parties, including conflicting statements about the potential for a ceasefire and the conditions necessary for meaningful negotiations.
At the same time, assaults persist throughout the broader area, encompassing strikes and counteractions in Iran, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.
Since the onset of the war, thousands have lost their lives, predominantly in Iran and Lebanon, highlighting the swiftly escalating human toll of the conflict.
