Iran confirms death of Guards commander in Israel war

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Iran's armed forces confirmed on Wednesday the death of top Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Ali Shadmani following an Israeli air strike last week, state media reported.

The military's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, which Shadmani led, vowed "severe revenge" for what it called the "criminal act" by Israeli forces, announcing the commander had died from injuries sustained in the attack, according to the IRNA state news agency.

The Israeli military said on June 17 that it had killed Shadmani in a strike on a "command centre in the heart of Tehran".

Israel described him as "the most senior military commander" and "the closest figure to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei".

The confirmation of his death came a day after a US-announced ceasefire ended 12 days of open conflict between Israel and Iran.

Shadmani died just days after he took over the role from Gholam Ali Rashid, who was killed in the first days of Israel's attacks.

On June 13, Israel launched a major bombing campaign targeting Iranian nuclear facilities and senior military figures.

The United States joined the operation later with strikes on the Fordo, Isfahan and Natanz nuclear sites.

Iran responded with waves of missile attacks on Israel and one targeting a US base in Qatar, prompting President Donald Trump to call for de-escalation and announce a ceasefire that took effect on Tuesday.

The war killed 627 civilians in Iran and 28 people in Israel, according to official figures.

Iran will hold on Saturday state funerals for senior military commanders, including Shadmani, and top scientists killed during the war with Israel.