Iran confirms Israel has killed one of its top security officials, escalating tensions across the region. Ali Larijani, a central figure in Iran’s security establishment, was reportedly killed in an overnight Israeli strike in Tehran just days after mocking former President Donald Trump.
Larijani headed the Supreme National Security Council, Iran’s highest security body, and had risen to become one of the most powerful men in the regime. Analysts described him as the de facto leader of Iran, coordinating the country’s security operations and directing military activity across the Middle East. He also played a key role in organizing the crackdown on domestic protests earlier this year.
An Israeli military official said, “He was effectively the leader calling the shots. We believe he has been eliminated in an Israeli Air Force strike. He was instructing attacks across the region.” Iranian authorities confirmed his death shortly after the attack.
Larijani was last seen publicly on Friday in Tehran at the Quds Day march, an annual event established after the Iranian Revolution that highlights Iran’s opposition to Israel. Known for his hardline stance, Larijani had openly mocked Israel and the United States, calling recent attacks on Tehran signs of “desperation.”
At 67, Larijani’s killing represents a major blow to Iran’s leadership, following the deaths of other senior figures. His son Mojtaba, reportedly the new Supreme Leader, has not been publicly seen since the strike, prompting speculation that he may have been seriously injured in the attack that killed his father.
This incident marks a dramatic escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, highlighting the fragile balance of power in Tehran and across the region. Analysts say the strike could reshape Iran’s security hierarchy and further intensify regional tensions.
