Iran's IRGC Launches Retaliatory Strikes Following Khamenei's Death

Following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has initiated a series of retaliatory strikes against U.S. and Israeli military installations. The IRGC claims to have targeted 27 bases, escalating tensions in the region. Tehran's national security chief has accused Israel of attempting to divide Iran, while Israeli officials celebrate Khamenei's demise. U.S. President Trump has warned of unprecedented military action against Iran, further heightening the situation. This article delves into the implications of these developments and the responses from both sides.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 1, 2026, 12:47 IST

Escalation of Attacks by IRGC

In the wake of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's passing, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has initiated a sixth wave of retaliatory strikes against the United States and Israel. The IRGC announced that it has conducted extensive missile and drone attacks targeting American and Israeli military installations across the region. They claimed to have struck 27 U.S. bases, including Israel's Nof Hagalil Airport, the Israeli army's command headquarters in HaKirya, and a significant defense industrial complex located in the city.

Claims by Tehran's National Security Chief Larijani

Ali Larijani, the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, accused Israel of attempting to divide Iran following a joint attack with the United States. In a statement published by the Fars news agency, Larijani asserted that the Israeli regime has no option but to create divisions among major powers to ensure its survival.

Israeli Defense Minister Celebrates Khamenei's Death

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz congratulated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the military for the attacks that led to the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In a post on social media, Katz stated that those who sought to destroy Israel have been eliminated. He further remarked that justice has been served and that the axis of evil has received a significant blow. Katz emphasized that Israel will continue to act with full force, indicating a tough stance from the government following this operation.

Trump's Warning of Unprecedented Force

Just hours after Iran warned of 'harsh punishment' following Khamenei's death, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Iran, stating that Washington would strike Tehran with unprecedented force. The United States has deployed a variety of weapons against Iranian targets, including Tomahawk cruise missiles, stealth fighter jets, and, for the first time in combat, low-cost unilateral attack drones based on Iranian designs.