Top Khamenei advisor Ali Shamkhani killed in Israeli strike on Tehran

Iran faced a major setback on Friday as Ali Shamkhani, the former Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Secretary and one of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s top advisors, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Tehran. Shamkhani, who served as a key military official for decades, was reportedly targeted in his home by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), marking another blow to Iran’s military leadership.

Shamkhani’s career in the military began as the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in Ground Forces. The IRGC, established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, has grown into a powerful force that has extended its influence across the Middle East. Shamkhani’s role in the IRGC and later as the commander of the Artesh Navy, where he helped rebuild Iran’s naval capabilities post-Iran-Iraq War, made him a significant figure in Iran’s military hierarchy.

Lisa Daftari, an Iran expert and Foreign Desk Editor-in-Chief, believes that Shamkhani’s elimination represents a strategic escalation aimed at destabilizing Iran’s regime. The precise strike not only targets Iran’s nuclear ambitions but also sends a clear message to the political elite, instilling fear and uncertainty among the leadership. Daftari emphasizes that this move aims to fracture the regime from within, setting a precedent for Iran’s leadership.

Shamkhani’s influence reportedly increased after the death of Qassem Soleimani in 2020, further solidifying his position within the Iranian military structure. His efforts to promote self-sufficiency in Iran’s military and his role in leading the Supreme National Security Council showcased his commitment to strengthening Iran’s defense capabilities.

In a rare interview, Shamkhani expressed his reservations about the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) following the Trump administration’s withdrawal. He acknowledged the sentiments of the Iranian people who felt that signing the pact was a mistake. Following Iran’s retaliation for Soleimani’s death, Shamkhani was sanctioned by the United States, highlighting his involvement in ballistic missile strikes.

The death of Ali Shamkhani in an Israeli airstrike underscores the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel and the broader implications for the region. His elimination deals a significant blow to Iran’s military leadership and raises questions about the future of Iran’s regime. The strategic implications of Shamkhani’s death will likely reverberate across the Middle East, shaping the dynamics of regional politics and security.