Ali Larijani, a senior Iranian official and the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, was reportedly assassinated by Israel’s military in Tehran on March 17, 2026. This incident marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, particularly following the recent war that began on February 28.
Israel’s Defense Minister Katz confirmed the killing, stating, “Israel’s Defence Minister Katz has claimed that Iran’s top security official has been assassinated; Iran has not commented on the claim.” The Israeli military also claimed responsibility for the targeted strike that led to Larijani’s death, which is considered the highest-level assassination since the onset of hostilities.
Larijani was last seen publicly at an al-Quds day rally in Tehran and had been a prominent figure in Iran’s nuclear negotiations with Western powers. His role in the Iranian government extended beyond security matters; he previously served as the Iranian Speaker of the Parliament and was promoted to oversee day-to-day operations for Iran shortly before the war began.
In addition to Larijani, the Israeli military also announced the killing of Gholamreza Soleimani, the commander of the Basij militia, further destabilizing Iran’s leadership structure. The killings have been described as a significant blow to the Iranian theocracy, especially following the earlier strike that resulted in the death of 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Observers note that Larijani has been the Islamic regime’s most public voice, often responding directly to threats from international figures, including US President Donald Trump. The implications of his assassination could be profound, as one analyst remarked, “If Larijani has been the number one official in Iran these last two weeks, and even if he is only one of the top few, killing or wounding him could significantly impact the overall strategic picture.”
Despite the claims from Israel, Iran has not yet confirmed Larijani’s assassination. Details remain unconfirmed, and it is unclear whether a handwritten note purportedly published by Larijani is intended as proof of life.
The situation remains fluid, with international observers closely monitoring Iran’s response and the potential ramifications for regional stability.
