Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have confirmed that their spokesperson, Ali Mohammad Naeini, was killed in an airstrike, as Israeli and US-linked operations continue to target sites in and around Tehran. Iranian state television reported the death on Friday morning, with the Guards stating that Naeini was killed during what they described as a “criminal and cowardly terrorist attack” carried out by “American-Zionist forces”. The exact location of Naeini at the time of the strike has not been clarified.
Intensifying strikes on Tehran
The announcement comes amid intensified bombardment of Tehran and surrounding areas in recent hours, as part of a broader escalation in the conflict between Iran, Israel and the United States. International reporting, including from BBC and CNN, has highlighted a pattern of targeted strikes on military infrastructure and key figures linked to Iran’s security apparatus, suggesting an effort to weaken command structures and strategic coordination. While Israeli officials have not publicly confirmed responsibility for this specific strike, the campaign has increasingly focused on high-value targets within Iran.
A key voice of the Revolutionary Guards
Naeini had served as the public face of the Revolutionary Guards since July 2024, regularly issuing statements on behalf of the organisation during periods of heightened tension. US and Israeli officials have previously described him as a central figure in shaping the regime’s messaging and propaganda. His last public appearance was reported on Wednesday, when he issued strong warnings to Iran’s adversaries, declaring that the coming days would “burn the enemies”, in reference to the Muslim new year.
The killing comes as the conflict continues to expand across the region, with missile exchanges, drone attacks and strikes on energy infrastructure reported in multiple countries.
Uncertainty over next phase
The death of Naeini adds to a growing list of high-profile figures targeted in recent days, underlining the intensity of the current phase of the conflict. Analysts warn that such developments risk further escalation, particularly if Iran responds with additional retaliatory measures across the region.
Source: BBC, CNN, The Guardian