Iran’s security apparatus has suffered a near-total decapitation following targeted US-Israeli airstrikes that killed the Revolutionary Guard’s top commander and a senior national security adviser.

The state-run IRNA news agency confirmed Sunday that Maj. Gen. Mohammad Pakpour, the Guard’s overall commander, and Ali Shamkhani, a veteran of the security establishment, were killed in the same offensive that claimed the life of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

New Governing Council Formed Amid Chaos

With the Supreme Leader’s seat vacant, a temporary governing council has been established to stabilize the Islamic Republic.

Under Iranian law, the council is composed of reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian, hard-line Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, and a representative from the Guardian Council.

While this body manages day-to-day affairs, the Assembly of Experts is mandated to select a permanent successor to Khamenei "as soon as possible."

Revolutionary Guard Vows "Most Intense" Offensive

Despite the loss of its top leadership, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a defiant ultimatum Sunday.

In a statement, the paramilitary force warned it would launch the “most-intense offensive operation” in the history of the Islamic Republic, specifically targeting Israel and what it labeled "American terrorist bases."

Raising a black flag of mourning and revenge over the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad, the IRGC promised a "regret-inducing punishment" for the aggressors.

Dubai Infrastructure Hit by Interceptions

The regional fallout has already caused significant damage to global hubs.

Dubai authorities reported that debris from intercepted drones and missiles sparked fires at Jebel Ali Port—the world’s busiest transshipment hub outside East Asia.

Similar debris struck the facade of the luxury Burj Al Arab hotel and caused a fire on the Palm Jumeirah. Officials also confirmed damage at Dubai International Airport, where four employees were injured during the aerial barrages.

Global Shipping Halts in Persian Gulf

The threat to global commerce escalated as the shipping giant CMA CGM instructed all vessels in or bound for the Persian Gulf to seek immediate shelter.

Citing the "regret-inducing" threats from the IRGC and the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the firm has suspended all transit through the Suez Canal, rerouting its entire fleet around the Cape of Good Hope.

The situation remains extremely volatile as the IRGC, the regular Armed Forces, and the Basij militia vow to stand firm against "internal and external plots" while the nation enters an indefinite period of transition and conflict.

Source: UNB