Israel says Iran intelligence chief Esmail Khatib killed in overnight strikes

Fresh Israeli strikes reportedly kill Iran intelligence chief Khatib after deaths of other top officials

March 18, 2026

Israel claims killing of Iran intelligence chief

Conflict intensifies with high-profile assassinations and retaliation fears

Israel on Wednesday claimed that Iran’s Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib was killed in overnight strikes, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two countries.

The claim was made by Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz, who said the operation targeted senior figures within Iran’s security establishment.

Wave of high-profile killings

The development comes just a day after Israel announced the killing of key Iranian officials, including Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, and Gholamreza Soleimani, commander of the Basij militia.

According to Israeli statements, the strikes form part of a broader campaign against Iran’s leadership amid intensifying hostilities.

Conflict escalates sharply

Tensions in the Middle East surged on March 17 as Israel claimed it had eliminated Larijani, who was widely believed to be playing a central leadership role following the reported killing of Ali Khamenei.

Iranian state media later confirmed the deaths of Larijani and Soleimani by early Wednesday (IST), though there has been no immediate confirmation regarding Khatib.

Regional implications grow

The conflict has raised concerns of wider regional involvement. An adviser to the United Arab Emirates Presidency has indicated that the UAE could join a potential US-led coalition aimed at ensuring safe passage of cargo ships through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

The latest developments underline a sharp escalation in the Israel-Iran confrontation, with fears mounting over further retaliatory strikes and disruption to global energy and shipping routes.