Iran’s Security Chief Ali Larijani Killed in Israeli Airstrike: Tehran Declares Him Martyr

Iran: Iran's Supreme National Security Council confirmed the death of Ali Larijani in its official statement released on Tuesday. The council declared him a "martyr", saying his life was lost in an Israeli airstrike. Using religious and emotional language, the statement described Larijani as a leader dedicated to the country and the Islamic revolution.

Who else was killed in the attack?

According to the council, Larijani was not alone in this attack. His son and bodyguards deployed for security also died. This attack was so intense that many people present at the spot could not save their lives. This incident has shaken Iran's power system and security structure.

What has Israel claimed?

Earlier, Israel had claimed that its Air Force carried out a precise and targeted airstrike near Tehran, in which Larijani was targeted. Israel's defense minister said that some commanders associated with the Basij militia were also killed in this operation. However, detailed information about the attack has not been made public.

Who was Ali Larejani and how important was his role?

Ali Ardashir Larejani (born 1958, Najaf, Iraq) has been a prominent figure in Iranian politics since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. He was the culture minister in the 1990s, where he increased strictness on media and arts. He was the speaker of Parliament from 2008 to 2020. Recently he became the secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, where major decisions regarding nuclear policy, defense and foreign policy were in his hands. He was considered close to Khamenei, and after Khamenei's death many considered him the country's de facto leader. Experienced and practical but completely loyal to the revolution – such leaders are rare.

What effect will his death have on Iran?

The sudden departure of such an experienced leader may shake the power balance. There may be changes in internal politics, and there will be rapid adjustments in regional strategies as well. Will Iran respond more harshly or will it weaken? This will become clear in the coming days. At present the entire country is in mourning, remembering him as a "true soldier of the revolution" and a "martyr". But the war continues, and the story is not over yet.