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Iran confirms killing of intel minister in third assassination in two days

What happened

Saudi energ">Israel conducted an airstrike that killed Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib, with his death confirmed by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday. This marks the third assassination in two days as part of an escalating campaign. Israel has reportedly given its military permission to strike Iranian leaders at will.

Why people care
The targeted killing of a high-ranking Iranian government official represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and trump-considers-draft-for-iran-war-amid-energy-crisis.html" class="story-link" title="Trump hasn’t ruled out a draft for war with Iran — but is conscription constitut">Iran. This assassination campaign signals a shift toward direct targeting of Iranian leadership, raising concerns about broader regional stability and potential retaliation.
The takes
Israeli position

Israel has acknowledged responsibility for the strike and has expanded its military authorization to target Iranian leaders directly. This represents a strategic decision to escalate pressure on Iran's government through targeted elimination of key officials.

Iranian response

Iran has confirmed the death of its intelligence minister, with President Pezeshkian making the official announcement. The loss of such a senior official in their intelligence apparatus represents a significant blow to Iran's security establishment and government structure.

Sources
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