In a significant and highly sensitive development amid escalating regional tensions, Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz on Tuesday claimed that Iran’s senior security figure Ali Larijani was killed in a recent strike. However, there has been no official confirmation from Iranian authorities, leaving the situation uncertain.
Conflicting Claims and Lack of Confirmation
According to statements from the Israeli government, Larijani was allegedly killed in overnight military operations targeting key figures in Iran. Katz claimed that Larijani and a senior Basij commander were “eliminated,” linking the strike to broader operations against Iran’s leadership and military network.
Despite these assertions, Tehran has not verified the claim, and ambiguity continues to surround Larijani’s status. Adding to the uncertainty, a post was shared on Larijani’s official social media account later in the day, paying tribute to Iranian “martyrs,” but it did not clarify whether he is alive.
Israeli Strikes Target Key Iranian Figures
Israeli officials indicated that Larijani was among the intended targets of coordinated strikes conducted across Iran on Monday night. Reports also suggest that Gholamreza Soleimani, the commander of Iran’s Basij forces, was killed in the same operation.
The Basij is a paramilitary force operating under the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which plays a critical role in Iran’s internal security and regional operations.
Rising Tensions and Strategic Implications
If confirmed, Larijani’s death would mark one of the most high-profile casualties in the ongoing conflict, following earlier reports of the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei at the onset of hostilities on February 28.
Larijani, a prominent figure in Iran’s political and security establishment, was last publicly seen during Quds Day rallies in Tehran, a major annual event in Iran.
On the same day, the United States government reportedly announced a reward of up to $10 million for information on several Iranian intelligence and military officials, including Larijani.
Situation Remains Fluid
With no confirmation from Iran and conflicting signals emerging, the situation remains fluid. Analysts warn that such developments could further escalate tensions in the region and deepen the ongoing conflict.
Observers are closely monitoring official statements from Tehran for clarity on Larijani’s status, as any confirmation could have major geopolitical consequences.
