Israel Claims Killing of Iranian Navy Chief Overseeing Strait of Hormuz

Israel Claims Killing of Iranian Navy Chief Overseeing Strait of Hormuz

Israel has announced the killing of a senior Iranian naval commander, Alireza Tangsiri, whom it accused of overseeing operations linked to the blockade of the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

The claim was made by Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, who alleged that Tangsiri was “directly responsible” for actions that disrupted maritime activities in the vital oil shipping corridor.

Katz further stated that the commander had been “blown up” in a targeted operation, adding that several other senior naval officials were also killed.

Iran had yet to issue an official response to the development as of press time, leaving the claims unverified from Tehran’s side.

Tangsiri, who was appointed commander of the Navy of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in 2018, was known for his hardline stance against both the United States and Israel. Prior to his appointment, he served as deputy commander of the IRGC Navy from 2010.

In recent weeks, statements attributed to him on social media suggested a firm position on restricting access to the Strait of Hormuz, warning that vessels linked to countries perceived as hostile to Iran would not be allowed passage.

The waterway, one of the world’s most critical transit routes, has reportedly faced significant disruptions since the escalation of hostilities in the region last month.

Tangsiri had previously threatened to shut down the strait if Iran’s oil exports were impeded, a stance that drew international concern. He was also among IRGC commanders sanctioned by the United States in 2019 following the downing of an American surveillance drone near the strategic passage.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a key global energy artery, with any disruption often triggering ripple effects across international markets.

Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in on the crisis, claiming that Iranian leaders are privately engaging in negotiations with Washington but are unwilling to admit it publicly. Iran, however, has denied that any such talks are taking place.

The latest development underscores the growing volatility in the Middle East, with fears that continued escalation could further destabilize global energy supplies and heighten geopolitical tensions.