IRGC confirms martyrdom of its navy commander
Iran’s top leadership on Monday honored Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy commander who died of wounds sustained during recent US-Israeli attacks, the IRGC said, as officials vowed to press ahead with maritime deterrence in the Persian Gulf.
In a statement, the IRGC said Tangsiri was injured after operations that “inflicted heavy damage” on enemy facilities and led to the downing of a US fighter jet. His death comes amid the Israeli-American war against Iran that escalated on February 28, IRNA reported.
Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei hailed Tangsiri as “courageous” and “valiant,” calling his martyrdom a source of “pride” and an enduring inspiration for Iran’s armed forces and the southern provinces.
He also said the martyrdom of the “brave son of Tangestan” stands as a “great badge of honor,” reinforcing Iran’s path of maritime strength and resistance. He said the trajectory of maritime strength would continue with greater resolve.
President Masoud Pezeshkian described the loss as a “great honor,” saying the commander helped elevate the IRGC Navy into a “formidable force” and a “mighty barrier” against aggressors. His sacrifice raises the “banner of dignity,” the president added.
Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf praised Tangsiri’s steadfastness under pressure from American naval forces, warning that any attempt to break Iran’s resolve would meet a “crushing response.”
Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei called him a “selfless commander” whose actions blunted enemy ambitions along Iran’s southern shores. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tangsiri’s legacy would sustain Iran’s security and independence with unwavering determination.