IDF Says Artillery Chief Eliminated in Lebanon Strike as Netanyahu Claims Killing of IRGC Quds Force Unit 840 Head
Tel Aviv: In a significant escalation of regional tensions, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Monday claimed it had eliminated a key artillery commander of the Imam Hussein Division in an airstrike in Lebanon, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the killing of senior Iranian Quds Force operatives in a separate operation.
According to the IDF, the strike carried out on Sunday targeted the main fire-control headquarters of the Imam Hussein Division in Lebanon, killing Kamil Melhem, the division’s artillery commander, along with several other fighters, including close aides to commander Yahya Hussein.
Key Commander Eliminated in Lebanon Strike
The Israeli military stated that Melhem played a critical role in directing artillery fire toward Israel and its troops, making him a high-value target. He was also reportedly involved in weapons procurement and operational coordination within the division.
Israel has described the Imam Hussein Division as a force linked to Iran’s Quds Force, operating under the broader “Axis of Resistance” and allegedly involved in attacks against Israeli military personnel and civilians.
“The strike significantly weakened the division’s operational capabilities,” the IDF said in its statement.
Netanyahu Claims Killing of IRGC Quds Force Leaders
In a parallel development, Prime Minister Netanyahu заявил that Israel had killed Asghar Bakri, also known as Yazdan Mir or Commander Bagheri, who headed Unit 840 of the IRGC-Quds Force, in an overnight covert operation.
Bakri was accused by Israel of orchestrating attacks against Jewish and Israeli targets globally.
Netanyahu also claimed that Majid Khademi, head of intelligence within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), was killed. Khademi had recently assumed the role following the death of his predecessor.
“Whoever acts to murder our citizens… bears responsibility for his own blood,” Netanyahu said, reiterating Israel’s stance on countering threats.
Rising Regional Tensions
The developments mark a sharp intensification of Israel’s operations against Iran-linked forces across the region, including Lebanon and beyond. Israeli leadership has emphasised its intent to continue operations with “strength and determination” until perceived threats are neutralised.
Analysts warn that such targeted killings could further escalate tensions in the Middle East, particularly involving Iran-backed groups and Israel’s ongoing military strategies.
