Iran has confirmed the death of senior political figure Ali Larijani, according to state media reports. Officials claim he was killed in what has been described as an American and Israeli attack.
Iranian sources say Larijani, a key member of the country’s political establishment, died alongside his son, Morteza, after a strike reportedly targeted a secure location in Tehran. The announcement was also shared on his social media account, which posted a message describing his passing as martyrdom and offering prayers and condolences.
بسم الله الرحمن الرحیم
ملت عزیز و سربلند ایران! الشعوب المسلمة وأحرار العالم: «بندهی خدا، به خدا پیوست.» لقد لحق عبدٌ من عباد الله بربّه شهيدًا. pic.twitter.com/G1kZUqbg1L— Ali Larijani | علی لاریجانی (@alilarijani_ir) March 17, 2026
He was one of the regime's most experienced insiders and deeply trusted by the late Khamenei. He was also among a very small group of people who could manage both the war and the politics around it.
Larijani was a highly influential figure in Iran, having served as Speaker of Parliament from 2008 to 2020. He also played a major role in Iran’s nuclear negotiations and was known for advocating a balanced diplomatic approach between regional powers and Western countries.
In addition, he served as an advisor on national security to Iran’s Supreme Leader.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian paid tribute him, saying that, Ali Larijani was a prominent and valuable figure. He added that Larijani served in various positions with extensive experience and worked to promote peace and stability in the region.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said Tuesday that Larijani was “eliminated last night”, though Iranian authorities have yet to confirm his death.
Oil Shock Escalates as Iran Strikes Disrupt Strait of Hormuz, Raising Global Tensions
An escalating oil crisis has emerged as Iran launched retaliatory attacks on U.S. interests and Gulf infrastructure, including oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The disruption impacting roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments has pushed energy prices higher.
The United States has urged its allies to form a naval coalition to protect the crucial shipping route, though support has been limited. Keir Starmer stated that United Kingdom is working with partners on a practical plan to reopen the strait but ruled out involvement under NATO leadership. Germany also expressed reservations, cautioning against drawing the alliance into a U.S.-led conflict.
At the same time, Iran’s health ministry reports that at least 1,200 people have been killed in U.S. and Israeli strikes since the conflict began. In neighboring Iraq, rockets struck near the U.S. embassy early Tuesday, triggering air defense responses over Baghdad Green Zone.
