Iran’s powerful national security chief Ali Larijani. FIle
| Photo Credit: AP
Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Tuesday (March 17, 2026) that Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani had been killed in an Israeli strike.
Israel targeted Iran’s powerful national security chief Ali Larijani in an overnight strike, Israeli media reported.
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Mr. Israel Katz made the announcement.
The Israeli military also announced it killed Gholam Reza Soleimani, the head of the Revolutionary Guard’s all-volunteer Basij force.
The killings again strip away top leaders from the Iranian theocracy after the Feb. 28 strike that killed 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Public broadcaster Kan said that Mr. Larijani was the “target of an assassination attempt”, while television station N12 reported the results of the strike were “still being reviewed”.
Israel’s military chief Eyal Zamir said “significant preventive achievements were recorded overnight” in a statement released by the military.
Meanwhile Ali Larijani’s handwritten note published on his social media outlets commemorates memory of Iranian sailors killed in U.S. attack whose funeral is expected to be held on March 17
The social media of Ali Larijani quoted him saying he called for National Unity and Responsibility.
The handwritten note attributed to Ali Larijani emphasizes the importance of national awareness, responsibility, and collective effort during challenging times.
“In the message, Larijani appears to stress that society must remain vigilant and committed to safeguarding national interests. He highlights the need for unity among citizens and institutions, urging people to act with wisdom and avoid actions that could weaken the country.”
“The note also suggests that progress and stability depend on cooperation, discipline, and thoughtful decision-making. It calls on individuals to contribute positively and remain mindful of the broader national good.”
“Larijani’s message concludes with an appeal for resilience and moral responsibility, underlining that the strength of the nation lies in the unity and awareness of its people.”
There was no confirmation from Iran.
Published – March 17, 2026 03:14 pm IST
