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Israel Strikes Key Iranian and Hezbollah Leaders Amid Campaign

3/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On March 18, 2026, the Israel Defense Forces confirmed the elimination of Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib and Hassan Ali Marwan, Hezbollah’s Imam Hussein Division commander.
Defense Minister Israel Katz said Israel is in a decisive phase of its campaign against Iran and Hezbollah.
Katz added that Israel will target senior Iranian officials based on intelligence.
Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said the strikes are weakening Iran's regime.

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Story summary

On March 18, 2026, the Israel Defense Forces confirmed the elimination of Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib and Hassan Ali Marwan, Hezbollah’s Imam Hussein Division commander.
Defense Minister Israel Katz said Israel is in a decisive phase of its campaign against Iran and Hezbollah.
Katz added that Israel will target senior Iranian officials based on intelligence.
Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said the strikes are weakening Iran's regime.