Israel Katz says top Iranian leader Ali Larijani eliminated, but Iran rejects claim, calls it misinformationTel Aviv: In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing conflict, Israel has claimed that senior Iranian leader Ali Larijani was killed in a targeted strike. However, Iran has firmly denied the claim, intensifying uncertainty and tension in the region.
The statement by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz comes amid the third week of escalating hostilities, with both sides engaged in high-level military operations and information warfare.
Israel Claims Targeted Strike on Larijani
According to Israeli officials, the strike was carried out based on classified intelligence inputs, targeting locations linked to Larijani. Reports suggest the attack took place on the night of March 16, with Israel now assessing the outcome.
Israeli media, quoting defense sources, indicated that the operation was part of a broader strategy to eliminate top Iranian leadership.
“The operation targeted high-value individuals coordinating Iran’s military response,” reports quoting Israeli defense sources said.
Iran Denies, Awaits Official Statement
Despite Israel’s claims, Iran has rejected reports of Larijani’s death. Sources from Larijani’s office stated that an official message from Iran’s Supreme Security Council is expected shortly, suggesting he may still be alive.
The denial has raised questions over the credibility of battlefield claims and the role of information narratives during wartime.
Power Vacuum After Khamenei’s Death?
Larijani was reportedly seen as a key figure following the alleged assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, taking charge of strategic military decisions.
In June 2025, Khamenei had appointed Larijani as the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, placing him at the center of Iran’s defense and policy framework.
His reported targeting signals a continuation of high-profile assassinations aimed at destabilising Iran’s leadership structure.
Basij Chief Also Reportedly Killed
In another major claim, the Israel Defence Forces stated that Gholam Reza Soleimani, head of Iran’s Basij Force, was also killed. The Basij is considered one of Iran’s largest paramilitary organisations.
However, independent verification of these claims remains unclear.
Global Implications and Rising Uncertainty
The developments come as the conflict between Israel, Iran, and indirect involvement of the United States continues to deepen.
Reports indicate that since late February, several top Iranian commanders have been targeted, signaling a shift toward decapitation strategy warfare.
Iran, on its part, is said to have implemented a multi-layered succession plan, ensuring immediate replacements for key positions in case of assassinations.
Information War Intensifies
Adding another layer to the conflict, Larijani’s recent social media activity reportedly included messages to Muslim nations, calling for unity and resistance.
With conflicting narratives emerging from both sides, experts warn that misinformation and psychological warfare are now central elements of the conflict.
What Lies Ahead
As tensions escalate and facts remain contested, the situation remains fluid. The coming hours are likely to be crucial in confirming Larijani’s status and determining the next phase of the conflict.
