4 Iran’s IRGC officers killed in airstrike in Damascus

New Delhi, Jan 20: Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has confirmed the death of four military advisers in an Israeli airstrike on a residential building in Damascus, Syria.

The IRGC, a significant force in Iran, blamed Israel for the attack, alleging the deaths of four advisers and Syrian forces. Israel, which has not commented on the incident, has in the past targeted Iranian-linked sites in Syria.

The strike occurred in the Mazzeh neighbourhood, a crucial area with military, diplomatic, and civilian facilities, including a military airport, the UN headquarters, embassies, and restaurants. Reports indicate a substantial explosion, raising concerns about potential casualties.

Senior IRGC figures have been in Syria since the civil war began in 2011, supporting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime against widespread rebellion. Last month, a suspected Israeli airstrike near Damascus killed a senior IRGC commander.

This incident further heightens tensions in the already volatile Middle East, connected to the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. Since Hamas's October 7 attacks on Israel, the region has been on high alert. The recent events underscore the intricate geopolitical landscape and the risk of a broader regional conflict involving major players like Israel and Iran.

Iran, a key regional player, supports various groups, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, complicating the geopolitical dynamics. The situation highlights the complexity of regional tensions, involving both state and non-state actors.