TEHRAN (Azat TV) – Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has vowed swift retribution against the “criminal murderers” responsible for the assassination of Ali Larijani, the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council. Larijani, his son, and several colleagues were killed in what Iranian state media described as a U.S.-Israeli airstrike on Wednesday, further inflaming the ongoing conflict engulfing the region.
New Leader Vows Retaliation
In a statement released Wednesday, Mojtaba Khamenei expressed deep sorrow over the killing of Larijani, whom he eulogized as a man of “knowledge, foresight and wisdom” with nearly five decades of service across political, military, security, cultural, and administrative fields. The new Supreme Leader, who succeeded his father Ali Khamenei after his death in the conflict, pledged that “every drop of blood has its price, and the criminals who assassinated the martyr will soon pay for their crime.” The Revolutionary Guard echoed this sentiment, announcing missile strikes on central Israel in revenge for Larijani’s death.
Larijani’s Significance and Impact
The assassination of Ali Larijani, 67, is considered a significant blow to Iran, potentially more impactful than the loss of the former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei at the war’s outset, according to analysts. Larijani was a pivotal figure in Iranian politics, described as an advocate for a nuclear deal with the U.S. and internal repression. His removal raises questions about potential transitional leadership in Iran, a role he was seen by some as capable of fulfilling, particularly in facilitating ceasefire negotiations. His death also complicates potential U.S. strategies for engaging with internal Iranian leadership, as highlighted by Donald Trump’s past remarks on seeking pragmatic leaders.
Escalating Regional Conflict
The killing of Larijani and subsequent retaliatory strikes come amid a wider escalation of the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, which began on February 28. The conflict has already claimed approximately 1,300 lives, including the former Supreme Leader. Iran has responded with drone and missile attacks targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting U.S. military assets. These actions have led to casualties, damaged critical infrastructure, and disrupted global markets and aviation. President Masoud Pezeshkian warned of “uncontrollable consequences” following attacks on the vital South Pars gas field, which supplies a significant portion of Iran’s gas. Qatar Energy reported extensive damage to its Ras Laffan liquefied natural gas facility due to missile attacks, calling it a “direct threat” to its national security. The European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, has urged Iran to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz and cease attacks on critical infrastructure, advocating for de-escalation and a diplomatic solution.
Funeral and Public Reaction
A funeral ceremony for Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani, commander-in-chief of the Basij militia, was held in Tehran, drawing large crowds. Mourners displayed photos of the deceased and chanted slogans against the United States and Israel, reflecting widespread public grief and anger over the assassinations. The ongoing conflict has forced leaders and citizens alike into a state of heightened alert, with reports of leaders hiding in bunkers amidst the intensified aerial exchanges.
The assassination of Ali Larijani, a highly educated and influential figure who navigated complex political and security landscapes for decades, represents a critical juncture in the ongoing war. His removal not only triggers a vow of revenge from Iran’s new leadership but also removes a potential key player from any future diplomatic or transitional discussions, significantly altering the strategic calculus for all parties involved.