IDF systematically dismantles Basij command in Tehran — commander killed, 10+ checkpoints struck

The IDF conducted a two-phase campaign against the IRGC Basij paramilitary force in Tehran on Day 18. In the overnight strike window, Basij commander Gholamreza Soleimani was killed along with his deputy and several senior officers — confirmed by the IDF and announced by Defense Minister Katz. In the hours that followed, the IDF struck Basij soldiers at more than 10 checkpoints and positions across Tehran, including an emergency position that had previously served as a football club. The IDF stated the strikes were inflicting deep and ongoing blows to the capabilities of the Basij unit. The Basij commands approximately 150,000 active volunteers and is Iran's primary domestic mobilization and internal security force. Killing its commander and then systematically striking its checkpoint network across Tehran degrades both the IRGC's operational coordination and the regime's ability to suppress internal dissent under sustained wartime pressure.

Key facts

• •Basij commander Gholamreza Soleimani killed in overnight IDF strike — deputy and senior officers also killed
• •IDF followed up by striking 10+ Basij checkpoints and positions across Tehran
• •Targets included an emergency position formerly used as a football club
• •IDF states strikes are inflicting deep and ongoing blows to Basij capabilities
• •Basij commands roughly 150,000 active volunteers — Iran domestic mobilization backbone
• •Degrading Basij checkpoint network undermines regime ability to suppress internal dissent