Ali Larijani, the head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, was reportedly killed by Israel in an airstrike near Tehran. This claim was made by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who stated that Larijani was targeted in an overnight strike. The ongoing conflict in the region has resulted in approximately 1,300 deaths since February 28.
Larijani, who was last seen publicly during the al-Quds Day rally in Tehran, has been a significant figure in Iranian politics for years. He was involved in leading Iran’s nuclear negotiations with Western powers and previously served as the Iranian speaker of the parliament. The Israeli military described him as ‘the de facto leader’ of the Iranian regime.
In a note commemorating 84 Iranian sailors killed in a U.S. attack, Larijani appealed to Muslim-majority nations to support Iran against the perceived threats from the U.S. and Israel. He has been vocal about the ongoing violence, stating, “These attacks are out of fear, out of desperation. One who is strong wouldn’t bomb demonstrations at all. It’s clear that it has failed.”
Additionally, the Israeli military claimed to have killed Gholamreza Soleimani, commander of the Basij militia, in the same operation. Katz remarked, “The leaders of the regime are being killed and their capabilities terminated,” underscoring the Israeli strategy in the region.
Despite these claims, Iran has not confirmed Larijani’s death, leaving his status unclear. Observers are closely monitoring the situation, as Larijani has been a pivotal player in Iran’s political landscape.
Details remain unconfirmed, and the implications of this event could significantly affect Iran’s political dynamics and its ongoing conflict with Israel.
