Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed Monday the death of its naval commander Alireza Tangsiri, who succumbed to severe injuries more than 96 hours after US and Israeli officials reported he had been killed in a targeted strike.
In a statement published by the IRGC’s official outlet Sepah News, authorities said Tangsiri died from critical wounds sustained earlier last week. Initial reports of his death had circulated through IRGC-affiliated channels, but confirmation was delayed until now.
Iranian media also confirmed the death of his deputy and intelligence chief within the IRGC Navy, Behnam Rezai.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz had previously stated that Israeli forces carried out a precise operation targeting Tangsiri along with several senior naval officials, describing him as directly responsible for mining operations and efforts to shut down the Strait of Hormuz.
US Central Command chief Brad Cooper said the killing would enhance regional security, adding that US military operations against IRGC naval forces would continue.
Tangsiri, a veteran commander in post since 2018, played a key role in Iran’s strategy in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy chokepoint through which roughly 20% of the world’s oil and gas shipments pass. Disruptions in the waterway have driven up global energy prices and intensified economic pressures worldwide.
The confirmation of his death comes amid rising expectations of potential US action to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, as additional American forces deploy to the region. The Pentagon is reportedly weighing military options, including possible ground operations, although no final decision has been approved.
Meanwhile, Iranian military officials warned of potential retaliation against US naval assets, including threats targeting the USS Abraham Lincoln if it enters operational range.
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