Israeli forces killed Iran's Intelligence Minister, Esmaeil Khatib, as confirmed by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz. According to international media outlets accessed by the Argentine News Agency, Khatib's death occurred during a nighttime airstrike in Tehran. It was also indicated that Israel has authorized its army to 'neutralize' any high-ranking Iranian official without requiring additional approval. Katz also stated that 'significant surprises' are expected on all war fronts and that he and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had expedited the process for attacking other members of the Iranian leadership. 'I have authorized the Israel Defense Forces to neutralize any high-ranking Iranian official as soon as an operational or intelligence opportunity arises, without the need for further approval,' he said. In turn, the Israeli Defense Minister stated that the war with Iran has entered its decisive 'final' phase.
