Following a targeted attack in the Iranian capital, the Israeli Air Force has killed the commander of the Basij paramilitary organization, Gholam Reza Soleimani.
Soleimani had led the Basij, a force known for its role in suppressing protests and internal control in Iran, for six years. He was considered one of the regime's key figures in managing popular discontent, particularly during recent anti-government protests, where killings, arbitrary detentions and forced confessions were reported.
The Basij operates under the umbrella of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), one of the most powerful military and political structures in Iran, reporting directly to the country's supreme leadership. The IRGC has a dominant role not only in national security, but also in the economy and politics.
Founded in 1979 by Ruhollah Khomeini, this force has become over the years a key instrument for protecting the regime and suppressing any form of opposition. The Basij, as part of it, is composed mainly of young volunteers and is quickly mobilized in situations of unrest.
Soleimani's killing marks a significant blow to Iran's internal security structures and comes at a time of high tensions in the region. Meanwhile, there has been no official reaction from Iranian authorities to this development.
