Tehran, March 18, 2026 – Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has officially confirmed the death of its secretary, Ali Larijani, one of the most powerful figures in the Islamic Republic’s leadership, following an Israeli airstrike overnight on March 16-17.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) first announced that Larijani, widely regarded as Iran’s de facto leader since the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28, was “eliminated” in a precise strike near Tehran. The IDF also reported the concurrent killing of Brig. Gen. Gholamreza Soleimani, commander of the Basij paramilitary force.
Iran’s confirmation came several hours later via state-affiliated outlets including Tasnim, Fars News, and Mehr. The Supreme National Security Council described Larijani as having been “martyred” alongside his son Morteza Larijani, a deputy in the secretariat, several bodyguards, and other personnel. Reports indicate the strike targeted a location in the Pardis area east of Tehran—initially described by some sources as his daughter’s home, though later clarified by Iranian media as an IRGC-affiliated safe house.
Larijani, 67, was a veteran politician and close confidant of the late Ayatollah Khamenei. He previously served as Speaker of Parliament and played a central role in Iran’s nuclear negotiations, security policy, and internal crackdowns. Analysts note his death represents the most significant blow to the regime’s upper echelons since Khamenei’s assassination at the war’s outset, potentially intensifying factional struggles within the leadership amid the ongoing conflict with Israel and the United States.
In response, Iran’s army chief warned of a “decisive and regrettable” retaliation, while state media reported missile and drone launches toward Israel, including strikes on Tel Aviv. Oil prices surged further, with Brent crude exceeding $100 per barrel amid fears over the Strait of Hormuz.
The killings mark a sharp escalation in the broader Middle East war, now in its third week, with both sides vowing further action. International reactions remain divided, with calls for de-escalation from some quarters overshadowed by heightened regional tensions.
This is a developing story. Updates expected as more details emerge from Tehran and Jerusalem.
