Israel strikes Iranian-linked “Imam Hussein” division, killing artillery chief PHOTO

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said that it targeted and dismantled key leadership within the “Imam Hussein” Division, a unit affiliated with Iran’s Quds Force on April 5.

The strike eliminated the division’s artillery commander, Kamil Melhem, along with several other senior operatives, including aides to the division commander, Yahya Hussein, the statement said.

According to the IDF, Melhem played a central role in directing artillery attacks against Israeli forces and civilians. He also oversaw weapons procurement and served as a key advisor within the division, making him one of the organisation’s top commanders.

The Israeli Air Force carried out the operation based on intelligence provided by the IDF. Officials said the strike targeted the division’s main fire-control headquarters, which coordinates the group’s artillery operations.

The “Imam Hussein” Division, described by Israel as a proxy of Iran’s Quds Force, has been involved in attacks on Israeli military and civilian targets and is part of the broader “Axis of Resistance” network in the region. Israeli authorities said the operation significantly degrades the division’s operational capabilities.

By Sabina Mammadli