Israel Says Ali Larijani and Basij Commander Killed in Iran Strike

Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Tuesday that senior Iranian figures, including Ali Larijani and a commander of the Basij paramilitary force, were killed in an air strike, Reuters reports.

There was no immediate confirmation from Iran regarding the reported deaths.

Earlier, the Israeli military said it had killed Gholamreza Soleimani, head of the Basij, a force under the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps often used to suppress domestic protests, the National News reports.

Larijani, a former nuclear negotiator and long-time political figure, had recently been seen attending public events in Tehran. He previously served as speaker of parliament and was appointed secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council last year.

The developments come amid escalating conflict involving Israel, the United States and Iran. Washington had earlier offered rewards for information on senior Iranian military and intelligence figures, including Larijani.

In remarks following the reported strike, Katz said Israeli forces would continue targeting Iranian leadership and strategic infrastructure.

Shortly after reports of Larijani’s death emerged, a message posted on his official social media account mourned those killed in the conflict and praised their sacrifice, without confirming his own status.

Soleimani, who led the Basij since 2019, had been sanctioned by the Council of the European Union and the U.S. Treasury over his role in suppressing protests.

From economics and politics to business, technology and culture, Kursiv Uzbekistan brings you key news and in-depth analysis from Uzbekistan and around the world. To stay up to date and get the latest stories in real time, follow our Telegram channel.