TEHRAN, Iran —Kamal YalwaIn the wake of deadly Israeli airstrikes that claimed the life of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) leader Hossein Salami, Iranian authorities have appointed Brigadier General Mohammad Pakpour as the new Commander-in-Chief of the elite force. He was also promoted to the rank of Major General. According to Iranian state media, at least 78 people were killed and 329 injured in what Tehran described as a “massive and coordinated” series of airstrikes on the capital. The strikes reportedly targeted high-level military and strategic sites. In a strongly worded statement following the attack, Iranian officials condemned Israel’s actions as a “flagrant violation of national security and territorial integrity.” They warned of severe retaliation, declaring that the “Zionist regime will face a bitter and painful fate” and vowed that “the gates of hell will soon be opened” in response to the deaths of Iranian commanders, scientists, and civilians. The death of General Salami, a prominent figure in Iran’s military hierarchy and known for his hardline stance against Israel, marks a significant escalation in regional tensions. His successor, Major General Pakpour, previously led the IRGC Ground Forces and has long been involved in operations across the region. No official response has yet been issued by Israeli authorities regarding the strikes. The situation remains highly volatile as regional powers brace for potential retaliation.
