The IDF announced Tuesday that Israeli forces carried out a targeted airstrike near Tehran a day earlier, killing Ali Larijani, a top Iranian national security official who had effectively assumed leadership of the regime’s operations. According to the IDF, the mission was executed by the Israeli Air Force based on detailed intelligence and specialized operational coordination.

Larijani had long been regarded as one of the most experienced and influential figures within Iran’s leadership and maintained a close working relationship with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei over many years.

After Khamenei’s elimination, Larijani emerged as the central authority within the regime, taking charge of its military and strategic efforts against Israel and other countries in the region.

In his capacity, Larijani was responsible for overseeing Iran’s national security apparatus, including coordinating its global activities and maintaining ties with allied elements within the broader regional network.

During the latest wave of unrest inside Iran, Larijani played a leading role in enforcing the regime’s crackdown, directing harsh suppression efforts and personally supervising a deadly campaign against demonstrators.

The IDF stated that his killing is part of a broader campaign that has already resulted in the deaths of numerous high-ranking Iranian officials during Operation Roaring Lion, dealing another significant setback to Tehran’s ability to plan and execute hostile actions against Israel.

He was also deeply involved in shaping Iran’s national security direction, including direct participation in key strategic matters such as the country’s nuclear program.

Following widespread reports of his death, a message appeared on Larijani’s official Telegram account claiming that a statement would soon be released. Shortly afterward, the account posted a handwritten note prepared for a naval funeral, but made no mention of the assassination reports and offered no confirmation that he remains alive.