Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced today that the Israeli military successfully eliminated Ali Larijani, Iran's Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council and one of the regime's most powerful figures, in a precision airstrike conducted overnight.
According to Minister Katz, Larijani was killed alongside Gholamreza Soleimani, commander of Iran's Basij paramilitary force, during strikes targeting high-level Iranian security infrastructure in Tehran. Katz stated that he was informed of the operation's success by Israel's military leadership, describing the action as a significant blow to Iran's leadership amid the ongoing conflict.
"Ali Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani were eliminated last night," Katz said in a statement. "This operation demonstrates Israel's resolve to defend itself and target those responsible for threats against our nation."
If confirmed, Larijani's death would mark the most senior Iranian official killed since Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was assassinated on the first day of the current war.
Larijani, a longtime hardliner and former nuclear negotiator, served as a key advisor and linchpin in Iran's political and security establishment. He had recently vowed intensified actions against Israel following earlier strikes.
Iran has not yet issued an official confirmation or denial of the claims. Conflicting reports have emerged, including a note reportedly released from Larijani's office, but no formal response from Tehran has been received as of this announcement.
This development comes as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate, with Israel conducting targeted operations against Iranian leadership and military assets.