Tehran: Iranian media reported the death of Iranian military official Hassan Abolfazl Naqvi, a close associate of Qassem Soleimani, commander of the Quds Force, who was killed in a US airstrike on his vehicle in Iraq in 2020.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Abolfazl Naqvi, known as “Haj Younes,” was killed in an Israeli airstrike on Iran during the 12-day war. Tasnim News Agency mourned Haj Younes, describing him as “one of the legends of confronting terrorists in the region” and highlighting his life of struggle and combat against the enemies of Iran, Islam, and the region. Haj Younes was recognized as one of the closest associates of Haj Qassem Soleimani, not only in military operations but also on a personal level.

The agency noted the significant role Haj Younes played in leading military operations for the Quds Force of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps in Syria. His presence was described as “central and influential,” underscoring his impact on the ground. In a detailed article, the agency elaborated on the personal relationship between Haj Younes and Soleimani, emphasizing their companionship both in military engagements and personal lives.

This report marks the first time Haj Younes’s identity has been revealed in Iranian media. The attack by Israel on June 13 resulted in the death of several senior military commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians. Following this, on June 22, the United States launched strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, before a ceasefire was declared by US President Donald Trump on June 24.