Iran's Security Chief Ali Larijani Allegedly Killed

Ali Larijani, Iran's security chief and a prominent figure in its nuclear policy and strategic diplomacy, is reported to have been killed by Israeli and US strikes. This alleged assassination follows the death of Ali Khamenei at the start of the Middle East war, which had initially elevated Larijani's power. Larijani had played a highly visible role, contrasting with the new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who has remained out of public sight. Israeli officials, including Defence Minister Israel Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have announced Larijani's death, though Iran has not confirmed it. His demise, if true, would be a major blow to the Islamic Republic, removing a key pragmatist capable of balancing ideological loyalty with statecraft. Larijani was central to Iran's nuclear negotiations with world powers and had warned against external pressure altering Iran's nuclear posture. He was also sanctioned by the United States for his role in repressing Iranian protests. This event is expected to have significant geopolitical repercussions, potentially escalating regional conflicts and impacting Iran's internal stability.