BEIRUT — Israel said on Tuesday it had assassinated Iran’s top security official, Ali Larijani, a move that — if confirmed — represents a significant blow to Iranian leadership as the war with the U.S. And Israel enters its third week.
A Veteran Official Removed
The killing of Larijani, who had been leading the country as de facto wartime leader following the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, eliminates a veteran official despite his lack of religious credentials for the Islamic Republic’s highest offices. He served as secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, giving him control over the country’s top security body.
Also killed in the strikes, according to the Israeli military, was Gen. Gholam Reza Soleimani, the head of the Basij, a volunteer auxiliary wing of the Revolutionary Guards.
Implications for the Conflict
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Larijani and Soleimani “were eliminated overnight and joined the head of the annihilation program, Khamenei, and all the eliminated members of the axis of evil, in the depths of hell.” Israeli officials use the term “axis of evil” to refer to Iran and its allied paramilitary groups, including Hamas and Hezbollah.
Even as Larijani was known for bellicose comments, he was also considered a pragmatist. Observers suggest his death may strengthen the resolve of remaining Iranian leadership rather than encourage compromise. Some analysts believe Israel’s action is intended to block potential ceasefire pathways and negotiations with Iran.
Iran has not confirmed the deaths of Larijani and Soleimani. However, Iranian authorities released an undated note attributed to Larijani honoring Iranian sailors killed in a U.S. Attack, posting the image to his account on X.
Statements from Leaders
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated, “We are undermining this regime in the hope of giving the Iranian people an opportunity to remove it.” He added that this outcome “will not happen all at once, and it will not happen easily.” Netanyahu and President Trump have repeatedly called on Iranians to topple their government.
President Trump reportedly dismissed Larijani, stating, “I have no idea what he’s talking about, who he is. I couldn’t care less.”
What Might Happen Next
The killing of Larijani adds to the disruption of Iran’s leadership structure, raising questions about who is left to negotiate an end to the war and who has the influence to secure compromise within Iran’s government. This action will empower more hard-line figures, as it did following the assassination of Ayatollah Khamenei.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Ali Larijani?
Ali Larijani was Iran’s top security official and secretary of the Supreme National Security Council. He had also served as parliamentary speaker for 12 years and was involved in nuclear negotiations.
What was the reaction to the announcement?
Iran has not confirmed the deaths of Larijani and Soleimani. Following the announcement, Iranian authorities released a note attributed to Larijani.
Why did Israel target Larijani?
According to Ellie Geranmayeh, a senior policy fellow at the European Council for Foreign Relations, Israel targeted Larijani to block potential ceasefire pathways and negotiations with Iran, as he would have been the key figure to lead those talks.
Given the current state of affairs, what role will diplomacy play in resolving the ongoing conflict?
