by Met Middleson

June 14, 2025

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) publicly confirmed the elimination of nine senior Iranian scientists tied to the country’s nuclear weapons program. According to the IDF, these individuals played critical roles in advancing Iran’s nuclear capabilities. The operation appears to be part of a broader Israeli effort to degrade Iran’s strategic threat potential.

Source: Israel Defense Forces on X. Used for reporting and commentary under Fair Use (17 U.S.C. § 107).

In addition to the scientists, the IDF claims to have eliminated several top Iranian military commanders, including figures within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the nation’s air and missile defense leadership. Among those named: Hossein Salami, Chief of the IRGC; Gholam-Ali Rashid, head of emergency response; and Amir Ali Hajizadeh, commander of the IRGC air force. These figures were central to Iran’s defense and missile strategy.

Source: Israel Defense Forces on X. Used for reporting and commentary under Fair Use (17 U.S.C. § 107).

This wave of targeted killings suggests a coordinated campaign designed to dismantle both Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure. It comes amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel, with the IDF reporting continued attacks on Israeli cities. The scale and openness of the announcements mark a serious escalation, possibly signaling a shift toward sustained preemptive action over traditional deterrence.