Israel Says It Has Killed Iranian Naval Commander Linked to Strait of Hormuz Blockade

Israel has said it killed Alireza Tangsiri, the head of the naval arm of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), in a strike tied to escalating tensions in the region.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that Tangsiri was “directly responsible” for actions involving the disruption and blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy corridor. He added that several other senior naval officials were also killed in the operation.

There has been no immediate confirmation or response from Iran regarding the claim.

Tangsiri had served as commander of the IRGC Navy since 2018, after previously holding the role of deputy commander for nearly a decade. Known for his hardline stance, he had frequently issued warnings against both Israel and the United States.

In past statements, including remarks made in 2019, Tangsiri had threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz if Iran’s oil exports were restricted—an action that could significantly disrupt global energy markets.

He was also among several IRGC figures sanctioned by the US Treasury in 2019 following the downing of an American surveillance drone near the strait.

The reported killing, if confirmed, would mark a significant escalation in the already volatile standoff affecting one of the world’s most critical maritime trade routes.