Israel claims Iran’s security chief killed in strike

TEHRAN (Web Desk) –  Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz claimed that Iran’s top security official, Ali Larijani, has been killed in a covert strike.

Israeli sources said the operation reportedly targeted Larijani while he was in a secret apartment with his son. Larijani is one of Iran’s most influential figures, closely linked to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and deeply involved in national security decisions.

If verified, his death would represent a major blow to Iran’s leadership. Israel has signaled that its military will continue pursuing Iran’s top command structure, potentially marking a more aggressive phase in the long-standing shadow conflict between the two countries.

In related claims, Israel also stated that Gholam Reza Soleimani, leader of Iran’s Basij force, has been eliminated. The group is known for its role in internal security and crackdowns. No independent confirmation has yet emerged, and Iran has not issued an official response, fueling global speculation.

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Recent public appearances of Larijani, including a rally during Al Quds Day in Tehran, show him alive and surrounded by senior officials and thousands of supporters, raising questions about the timing and accuracy of Israel’s claims.

At the rally, Larijani criticized US President Donald Trump, saying, “Trump does not understand the Iranian people. This is a brave, strong, and determined nation. The more pressure applied, the stronger our resolve becomes.”

Analysts urge caution, noting that similar claims in the Israel-Iran shadow conflict have previously proved inaccurate.