Top Iranian Security Official and Basij Commander Killed in Israeli Strikes

Israel has confirmed the deaths of Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, and Gholamreza Soleimani, commander of the Basij paramilitary force, in recent air strikes. The confirmations came after Israel claimed responsibility for the killings, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations.

Key Figures Eliminated

Ali Larijani, a prominent figure in Iranian politics, previously served as speaker of the Iranian parliament and led the nation’s nuclear negotiations with the West. He was appointed as the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council by President Masoud Pezeshkian in August. Larijani was the highest-ranking Iranian official killed in attacks since the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28th, the first day of the ongoing war according to Iranian state media.

Gholamreza Soleimani commanded the Basij, a paramilitary force under the control of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), often utilized to suppress domestic protests as reported by The National News.

Israel’s Response and Claims

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that Larijani and Soleimani “were eliminated last night and have joined Khamenei… in the depths of hell” as reported by the BBC. The statement reflects the intensity of the conflict and Israel’s assertive stance.

Iran’s Confirmation and Mourning

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council confirmed the deaths of both men, along with Larijani’s son, Morteza, and bodyguards. The council described Larijani’s death as a martyrdom achieved after a lifetime dedicated to Iran and the Islamic Revolution according to Al Jazeera.

Broader Regional Impact

These killings occur amidst a wider conflict that has spread across the Middle East, triggered by initial strikes by the US and Israel against Iran on February 28th. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks against Israel and Arab states hosting US military facilities. The conflict has also impacted global oil prices, with production stoppages in Gulf states and disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz as noted by the BBC.

Recent Activity of the Deceased

Prior to his death, Larijani was publicly seen attending an Al-Quds Day rally in Tehran, demonstrating support for Palestinians as reported by Al Jazeera.

The US had previously offered a reward of up to $10 million for information on senior Iranian military and intelligence officials, including Larijani according to The National News.