Press Briefing by IDF Spokesperson BG Effie Defrin-June 17, 2025

Last night, following precise intelligence received by the Intelligence Directorate, we eliminated Ali Shadmani, the most senior military commander of the Iranian regime during the war. He was eliminated at the Iranian regime's headquarters in the center of Tehran. Shadmani served as the wartime Chief of Staff of the Iranian regime’s armed forces and was the closest associate of Iran's Supreme Leader. Ali Shadmani was appointed to replace Gholam Ali Rashid, the previous Chief of Staff, whom we also neutralized in the opening strike of the operation. Shadmani served in the role for only four days, he too was eliminated.

We will relentlessly pursue our enemies through advanced intelligence capabilities, exploiting emerging opportunities, air superiority, and complex operational planning. Simultaneously, we continued striking targets in several areas across Iran. Last night, we struck surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missile launchers, UAV storage facilities, and missile production and storage sites. Below is footage of another precise elimination operation: yesterday, Iranian military operatives launched anti-aircraft missiles toward a remotely piloted aircraft. The aircraft identified the squad preparing for launch, struck the launcher, and eliminated the operatives. We continue to address aerial threats and target them according to a structured plan. These operations stop significant amounts of the fire directed at Israel's home front.

This morning and throughout the night, approximately thirty missiles were launched toward the State of Israel. Most of the missiles were intercepted, but several impacts were identified. Your conduct in the home front is critically important. I repeat and emphasize, we cannot afford to be complacent. The Iranians still possess the capabilities and intent to strike Israel’s home front. Adhere to the IDF Home Front Command’s directives; these instructions save lives. IDF soldiers continue operating on all fronts, both in defense and offense. In Gaza, our forces are engaged in intense battles against terrorists. The forces are operating in the area with clear missions to achieve our objectives.

Yesterday, First Sergeant Naveh Leshem (of blessed memory) fell in battle. He was 20 years old, a combat soldier in the Golani Brigade. And Captain (Res.) Tal Movshovitz, 28 years old, deputy company commander in the Golani Brigade. We share in the grief of the families in their time of sorrow. We mourn their loss and will continue to support them. This is another reminder of the heavy price we pay in this just war. This is a war for our future and the future of our children. Together, we will prevail. I will continue to brief and update you on any developments.

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