Israel claims it killed Iran intelligence minister Esmail Khatib in Tehran strike

Israel claimed on Wednesday that it had killed Iran’s intelligence minister Esmail Khatib in an airstrike in Tehran. However, there is no official confirmation yet from the Iranian government.

If confirmed, this would be the third killing of a senior Iranian leader in two days. Israeli media said it is still unclear if the target was successfully hit, and the situation is being reviewed.

Iran has not yet responded officially. The claim comes as tensions between Iran and Israel continue to rise, with both sides carrying out attacks.

Earlier, Israel claimed to have killed senior figures including Ali Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani. Iran’s health ministry says that since February 28, more than 1,400 people have been killed and over 18,000 injured.

Iran Responds with Missile Strikes

After the killings, Iran launched retaliatory missile attacks. Reports say a building in Ramat Gan near Tel Aviv was damaged, and two people were killed.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the country’s system remains strong and promised a “decisive response.”

Conflict Spreads to Other Countries

The conflict has now spread beyond Iran and Israel. Reports say missile and drone attacks were directed toward countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Jordan.

Gulf countries said they intercepted many of the attacks, but explosions were still reported in some areas. Air defense systems were also activated in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

Iran Blames US for Escalation

Araghchi said the United States is responsible for the conflict. He claimed US forces moved into civilian areas, increasing risks for local people.

He said Iran targeted places where US forces were present, but some attacks may have affected nearby civilian areas. He added that Washington is fully responsible for the war that started on February 28.

UAE Limits Eid Prayer Gatherings

Meanwhile, authorities in the United Arab Emirates announced that Eid-ul-Fitr prayers will only be held inside mosques due to security concerns.

Officials said this step was taken for public safety and urged people to follow guidelines and offer prayers at designated places.