Israel Claims Killing of Top Iranian Security Official Ali Larijani

Israel’s military has claimed responsibility for the assassination of Ali Larijani, a powerful security chief in Iran. The claim, made on March 17, 2026, by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two nations. Iran has not yet confirmed the killing.

Key Developments

• Ali Larijani Targeted: Israel asserts its forces targeted Ali Larijani, a former nuclear negotiator and a leading figure within the Iranian regime.
• Senior Official Killed: Larijani would be the most senior Iranian official killed since former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei died in initial US-Israeli strikes on February 28.
• Other Targets: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also stated it targeted Akram al-Ajouri, the deputy secretary-general of Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), and Basij commander Gholamreza Soleimani. Israel claims both Larijani and Soleimani have been assassinated.
• U.S. Embassy in Baghdad: Explosions were reported near the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, though the extent of any damage remains unclear.
• Strait of Hormuz: Former U.S. President Donald Trump has urged allies to assist in escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz, as Iran’s control over the waterway has led to surging oil prices.
• Casualty Figures: Over 2,000 people have been killed across the Middle East as a result of the conflict. In Iran, strikes have resulted in over 1,200 deaths, according to the Iranian Red Crescent Society. At least 850 have been killed in Lebanon, 13 in Israel, and 13 U.S. Service members have died, with two additional deaths attributed to non-combat causes.

Who is Ali Larijani?

Ali Larijani serves as the secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) of Iran. He was last seen in public on Friday, March 14, 2026, participating in Quds Day rallies.

International Response

The United States and its allies have offered a muted response to Trump’s request for assistance in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has not yet issued a statement regarding the reported deaths of Larijani, and Soleimani.

Ongoing Conflict

This latest development comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with ongoing attacks and counterattacks between Israel and Iran. The situation remains fluid and volatile.