Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, has been killed in the ongoing US-Israel airstrikes, Iranian state television confirmed on March 1 (Sunday). Appointed to the pivotal role in 2025 by Ayatollah Khamenei after predecessor Mohammad Bagheri’s assassination, Mousavi- nicknamed "The Man for Difficult Missions"- orchestrated Iran’s defense amid escalating regional threats.
From ground commander to supreme military strategist
A veteran with decades of service, Mousavi commanded the Army's Northeastern Headquarters, oversaw operations, and led Imam Ali Military University before rising as Army Commander-in-Chief in 2017 and Chief of Staff in June 2025. Khamenei praised his "commendable services" and tasked him with bolstering Basij forces and rapid threat responses through "revolutionary action."
Part of a broader command purge
Mousavi's elimination follows strikes reportedly targeting Khamenei, President Masoud Pezeshkian, and others like Ali Shamkhani and Mohammad Pakpour, per Iranian judiciary and media. CNN cited Israeli sources on hits to multiple brass, crippling Iran's hierarchy as the IRGC vows massive retaliation.
Strategic blow amid Khamenei's martyrdom
The losses compound the decapitation of Iran's leadership post-Khamenei's confirmed death in his Tehran office during Saturday's 'Operation Epic Fury/Lion's Roar'. With over 200 fatalities reported across 24 provinces, the strikes aim to dismantle nuclear and missile capabilities, leaving the regime scrambling for continuity.
Iran's defiant response and global ripples
Tehran frames these as "martyrdoms," declaring 40 days of mourning while IRGC threatens unprecedented offensives. Oil prices soar past $70/barrel, airspaces close and world powers urge restraint as the power vacuum risks wider war.
IRIB footage shows massive crowds flooding Tehran, Isfahan, and Mashhad to grieve Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death from Saturday's US-Israeli airstrikes, blending sorrow with anti-Western fury.
40-day mourning period kicks off nationwide
Iran declared 40 days of public mourning per Shia tradition, with chants of "God is great" echoing as protesters honor the "martyr" and brace for succession amid beefed-up security.
Tehran University becomes focal protest point
Students and locals rallied before Tehran University, waving flags and decrying the strikes as acts of aggression during the leadership vacuum.
Imam square erupts in Isfahan defiance
In central Isfahan, throngs packed historic Imam Square, raising slogans like "God is great" to protest ongoing airstrikes and commemorate Khamenei's sacrifice. Northeastern Mashhad saw emotional gatherings at the revered Imam Reza shrine, where mourners hoisted black flags, shed tears, and vowed retribution for the fallen leader.