21 Jun behnam shahriyari: Iran Israel Airstrikes: What is Quds Force and why is Israel targeting its commanders? Here’s how Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is involved
Two Quds Force Officials Targeted
Israel said it carried out overnight airstrikes that killed Behnam Shahriyari and Saeed Izadi. Shahriyari was identified as being responsible for weapons transfers from Iran to groups supported by Iran. Saeed Izadi, who was killed earlier, was said to lead the Palestine branch of the Quds Force. He is sanctioned by the United States.
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Role of Quds Force
The Quds Force is a part of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It is responsible for conducting operations outside Iran. It works with armed groups in the region, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza. The Quds Force helps these groups through coordination, funding and logistical support.
IRGC Structure
The IRGC was formed after Iran’s 1979 revolution. It reports directly to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Quds Force is a division within the IRGC and handles regional influence efforts through indirect military support.
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Iran’s Ties with Armed Groups
Since the attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, Israeli officials have linked Iran to the group Hamas. Both the US and Israel blame Iran because of its long-term support for Hamas and similar groups.
Previous Major Strike Against Quds Force
In January 2020, the United States killed Qasem Soleimani in a targeted strike in Baghdad. Soleimani had led the Quds Force since 1998. This action increased regional tensions and marked a turning point in US-Iran relations.
The United States labeled the IRGC as a foreign terrorist organization in 2019. This includes the Quds Force. The designation limits IRGC’s international activities and allows for sanctions against its members.
FAQs
What does the Quds Force do?
The Quds Force operates outside Iran. It supports and works with groups like Hezbollah and Hamas through military, financial and logistical assistance.
Why did Israel target Quds Force commanders?
Israel claims the commanders helped transfer weapons to groups hostile to Israel. These actions are seen as part of Iran’s regional influence.