Israel kills key Quds Force commander Saeed Izadi in airstrike

On June 22, 2025, Israel conducted a targeted military operation in Qom, central Iran, killing Saeed Izadi, the commander of the Palestine Corps of the Quds Force. This operation is part of a broader conflict between Israel and Iran that began on June 13, 2025, characterized by ongoing airstrikes aimed at Iranian military and nuclear assets. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have claimed that Izadi played a significant role as a key liaison between Iran and Hamas, particularly by coordinating weapons transfers and increasing financial support to the militant group during recent escalations. His influence also extended to orchestrating attacks against Israel, including being appreciated as one of the principal architects of the October 7 massacre, which led to significant casualties on the Israeli side. The airstrike that killed Izadi was part of a continuing series of Israeli offensives that had previously aimed to destabilize Iranian influence in the region by targeting high-ranking officials and critical military infrastructure. According to IDF statements, this attack was deemed a significant intelligence and operational success, which they believe enhances the stability of the Middle East. Following Izadi's death, the Israeli government emphasized that his elimination would mark a pivotal point in the ongoing multi-front conflict, with hopes of making the region safer amid escalating tensions with Iranian-backed militant groups. In the context of regional dynamics, the Quds Force, which plays a crucial role in Iran's foreign military endeavors, has been instrumental in establishing a network of armed groups aligned with Iranian interests, often referred to as the Axis of Resistance. These groups include Hezbollah in Lebanon and various Palestinian factions, including Hamas. Over the past two years, Israeli offensives have significantly weakened these organizations, limiting their operational capacity. Despite the efforts by Israel to disrupt Iran's support for these groups, the conflict shows little sign of resolution, with both sides continuing to engage in military confrontations. The implications of Izadi's death could have widespread ramifications for Hamas and other militant groups operating in the region. As reported, the U.S. and Britain had already sanctioned Izadi for his associations with terrorist organizations. This latest operational achievement by Israel comes amid escalating hostilities that have persisted since the October 2023 attacks and highlights the complex interplay between Iranian proxies and Israeli defense strategies, showcasing a continued cycle of violence that poses significant challenges for long-term peace in the Middle East.