Death of Ali Larijani Deepens Crisis in Iranian Leadership
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Iran has confirmed the death of its National Security Chief, Ali Larijani, following an Israeli attack, and has issued a warning of a “decisive” response.
Larijani is the second-highest-ranking Iranian official to die after attacks by the US and Israel, second only to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Israeli media reports state he was targeted while hiding with his sons during the strike.
Since August 2025, Larijani had served as the influential Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.
Within the council, he was considered a representative of the recently deceased Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The death of Larijani in an Israeli airstrike marks a significant turning point for the Islamic Republic, as it loses one of its most experienced and influential policymakers.
Though not a military commander, he played a central role in Iran’s strategic decision-making processes.
As Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, he was at the heart of decisions relating to war, diplomacy, and national security.
His approach also influenced Iran’s overall policymaking, especially in dealings with the United States and Israel.
Following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on February 28, Larijani conveyed a message that Iran was prepared for prolonged conflict.
Despite his hardline stance against Western powers, Larijani was viewed domestically as a pragmatic leader who interpreted ideological matters from a strategic perspective rather than strict dogma.
Skeptical of cooperation with Western nations, he also worked as a diplomat on efforts such as Iran’s long-term agreement with China.
Managing Three Major Crises
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At the time of his death, Larijani was managing three major crises.
The first was the war crisis. He advocated that Iran should prepare for a prolonged conflict, press for an expansion of regional fighting, and support the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
The second crisis was related to internal unrest. Driven by economic dissatisfaction, this unrest escalated into widespread protests aiming to overturn the Islamic Republic. Following a harsh crackdown by the government, thousands of protesters were killed nationwide.
The third issue involved Iran’s nuclear program and stalled talks with Washington. Both matters have been obstructed by the joint military strike.
None of these crises had been resolved at the time of his death, and it remains unclear who will take over these sensitive responsibilities.
Potential Leadership Crisis
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Despite Iran’s attempts to disrupt global energy markets, ongoing airstrikes on its airspace pose significant risks to other senior officials who may now be immediate targets.
This series of events is expected to further empower the military. President Masoud Pateshkian has stated that if senior leaders are unable to issue orders, the armed forces must assume independent leadership and act decisively. Practically, this means the military could make rapid decisions without needing central coordination.
On the other hand, signs indicate that Iranian leadership is struggling with managing succession plans.
Iran has postponed public announcements, and key figures including new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei have yet to be publicly revealed. It is unclear whether this delay is due to security concerns or internal uncertainties.
In the short term, this may lead to intensified conflict and internal repression, increasing instability.
However, as time passes and the regime loses more senior officials, maintaining effective governance will become increasingly difficult—especially in a country with a population of 90 million.
In this context, Larijani’s death carries greater significance than the loss of a single official; it deepens the leadership crisis affecting war efforts and internal stability.
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