Mar 17 • 15:46 UTC 🇶🇦 Qatar Al Jazeera

After news of the deaths of Larijani and Soleimani.. Iran announces the start of a new phase of attacks

Iran's Revolutionary Guard announced new waves of attacks on Israel and the region following claims of the deaths of two high-ranking Iranian officials, vowing to begin a new phase in their military strategy.

Following rumors of the deaths of Ali Larijani, Iran's National Security Council Secretary, and General Gholam Reza Soleimani, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared a new phase of military operations against Israel and U.S. interests in the region. The IRGC specifically mentioned an increase in impactful strikes as part of Operation "Al-Waad Al-Sadiq 4" targeting various locations including Israeli cities and American bases in Iraq. This announcement illustrates a significant escalation in Iran's military posture, indicating a response to perceived threats from the U.S. and allies.

The Iranian media reported the launching of a new missile, the "Haj Qasem," for the first time during this round of attacks, suggesting a possible enhancement in Iran's missile capabilities. Furthermore, reports from Iranian sources hint at a belief within Tehran that U.S. President Donald Trump has suffered military setbacks and was surprised by the advancements in Iran's military capabilities. This narrative plays into a broader theme of defiance against perceived American aggression in the region.

The Iranian military leadership's rhetoric emphasizes a commitment to countering U.S. and Israeli influence, indicating a longer-term strategy to engage militarily. This could potentially have significant implications for regional stability, raising concerns among neighboring countries and international observers about the risks of an expanded conflict. The ongoing tensions in the Middle East and Iran's assertive military statements highlight the precarious state of affairs in the region and the challenges facing diplomatic efforts to mitigate conflict.

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