Ali Larijani, one of Iran’s most influential figures and head of the Supreme National Security Council, died in the air strike. Tehran confirmed this on Tuesday (17 March). Earlier, Israel had talked about targeting him.
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council said Larijani was martyred along with his son and bodyguard. The council described him as a martyr serving the Islamic Republic. “The holy souls of the martyrs embrace the sacred soul of the Servant of God, Martyr Dr. Ali Larijani,” the council said in a statement. Earlier, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz had said that Larijani was among the senior leaders who were killed in Israeli attacks.
What did Benjamin Netanyahu say?
Following Larijani’s death, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has stepped up missile and drone attacks across the region, while Tehran has tightened its control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil route. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that these attacks were aimed at weakening Iran’s leadership. However, there are no clear signs of unrest inside Iran, as people are constantly taking shelter to avoid attacks.
A week before his death, Larijani had also issued a serious threat to US President Donald Trump in response to his warning. Larijani had said that a sacrificial nation like Iran is not afraid of your empty threats. Even people bigger than you could not destroy Iran. Be careful that you don’t end up yourself.
Who was Larijani?
Larijani was considered one of the most influential figures in the Islamic Republic, with influence spanning politics, security and diplomacy. They came from one of Iran’s most prestigious political families, often compared to the Kennedy family of the United States. His brother Sadek Larijani held the post of judiciary chief, while Mohammad Javad Larijani was a senior foreign policy advisor.
Larijani himself held several important roles, including Speaker of Parliament from 2008 to 2020 and head of the Supreme National Security Council, Iran’s highest defense and foreign policy decision-making body.
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