According to a report by Sky News on Monday, April 6, 2026, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has released an uncommon public statement expressing condolences over the death of a senior military figure in the country’s powerful security apparatus.

In a written message shared on social media, Khamenei mourned the killing of Major General Seyyed Majid Khademi, the intelligence chief of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He described the late commander as having joined a “steadfast line of warriors and fighters” who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation.

The statement is notable given Khamenei’s limited public appearances and communications since assuming leadership following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei. Observers say such messages are rare and often signal the gravity of unfolding events within Iran’s political and military hierarchy.

The development comes amid escalating tensions in the region after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed responsibility for a targeted strike in Tehran that reportedly killed Khademi. According to Israeli military officials, the operation was carried out on Sunday and successfully “eliminated” the senior IRGC commander.

In a statement, the IDF described Khademi as one of the IRGC’s most senior figures, noting that he possessed extensive experience in both military strategy and intelligence operations built over many years. His role placed him at the core of Iran’s security and intelligence network, making his death a significant blow to the country’s command structure.

The reported killing is part of a broader pattern of Israeli strikes targeting high-ranking Iranian officials in recent times. Dozens of senior figures have reportedly been killed in similar operations, including prominent leaders within Iran’s military and political establishment.

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