Netanyahu Confirms Killing of Iranian Security Chief Ali Larijani, Cites Goal of Regime Destabilization

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the killing of Ali Larijani, the de facto leader and secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, stating the action was intended to destabilize the Iranian regime and create an opportunity for Iranians to remove their current leadership. The confirmation follows earlier announcements by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz.

Targeting of Key Iranian Figures

Netanyahu stated that alongside Larijani, the commander of the Basij Force, Gholamreza Soleimani, was also eliminated in the operation. He described the Basij as “the gang of gangsters that actually rules Iran.”

Strategic Objectives and US Cooperation

According to Netanyahu, the goal of these strikes is to undermine the Iranian regime, ultimately empowering the Iranian people to determine their own future. He acknowledged that achieving this outcome “is not going to happen overnight” and “is not going to be simple,” but asserted that continued pressure will provide Iranians with the chance to “take their destiny into their own hands.”

Netanyahu emphasized ongoing coordination between Israeli and US forces, including their air forces and navies, and highlighted recent discussions with US President Donald Trump regarding the strategy. He indicated that cooperation includes both indirect attacks to generate pressure on the regime and direct operations.

Larijani’s Role and Recent Activities

Larijani had assumed control of Iran’s war management operations following the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28th, marking the eighteenth day of the current conflict . He was last publicly seen on March 13th, attending an Al-Quds Day rally in Tehran in support of the Palestinians . Larijani previously held significant positions within the Iranian political hierarchy, including leading the country’s nuclear negotiations with the West and serving as the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament.

Iranian Response and Ongoing Conflict

As of March 17, 2026, Iran has not officially confirmed or denied the deaths of Larijani and Soleimani . Despite the reported killings of senior leaders, the conflict continues, with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard maintaining missile launches at Israel and across the Gulf .

Nowruz Greetings Amidst Conflict

Following the announcement of Larijani’s death, Netanyahu extended Nowruz greetings to the Iranian people, expressing wishes for a “year of freedom” and a “new beginning of hope” . President Isaac Herzog also conveyed holiday wishes, expressing hope for positive change in the region and a better future for Iran .