Iranian Karate Champion Helena Gholami Killed in Israeli Airstrikes

Tehran: Helena Gholami, a well-known karate athlete from Iran’s Lorestan province, has been killed in the recent Israeli airstrikes on Iran. The Iranian Karate Federation confirmed her death and expressed deep sorrow over the loss.

Helena Gholami was not only a skilled karate champion but also a role model for Iranian youth. Her sudden death has cast a shadow of grief over the country’s sports community.

The Israeli attacks began on June 13, 2025, at a time when Iran and the United States were engaged in negotiations over nuclear agreements and uranium enrichment.

According to Iranian government officials, at least 224 people have been killed in these strikes so far, including 74 women and children. The Ministry of Health reported that more than 1,800 people have been injured.