Trump approved Iran operation ‘after Netanyahu argued for joint killing of Khamenei’

According to sources, Donald Trump approved a joint US-Israeli operation against Iran after a phone call with Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu reportedly urged Trump to authorize a "decapitation strike" targeting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his key lieutenants, who were believed to be meeting in Tehran. Netanyahu argued this was a unique opportunity to eliminate Khamenei and retaliate for alleged Iranian plots to assassinate Trump, including a 2024 murder-for-hire scheme. The intelligence suggesting the meeting had been moved forward prompted Netanyahu to push for the strike, despite Trump's previous opposition to such military interventions. The operation was approved less than 48 hours before its commencement.

Iran has denied launching missiles at the joint US-UK military base on Diego Garcia, dismissing claims as an Israeli "false flag" operation. The denial follows reports in US media outlets alleging a missile launch between Thursday night and Friday morning that failed to hit the base. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei stated that the accusations are disinformation, noting that even NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte did not confirm Israel's claim that Iranian intercontinental ballistic missiles were used. Confirmation of Iran's involvement would suggest the country possesses missiles with a range exceeding 4,000km, capable of reaching London, despite Iran's previous claims of limiting missile range to under 2,000km.

Iran developed a vast network of street cameras for internal surveillance and control of dissent. According to the article, Israel repurposed this camera network, turning it into a targeting tool. The article suggests this surveillance system played a role in the killing of Iran's supreme leader. The article, originating from Tel Aviv, highlights the increasing use of surveillance systems for purposes beyond their original intent. The Associated Press reported this information with updates through the current day.

Since February 28th, the US and Israel have conducted bombing raids in Iran, killing dozens of senior officials, including a former supreme leader. Despite these losses, Iran argues its political system remains solid and resilient. This conflict, now in its fourth week, contrasts with a previous US raid in Venezuela where President Maduro was abducted. The situation has caused a surge in oil prices, prompting President Trump to temporarily halt strikes on Iranian power plants for five days. The US has also threatened to deploy more warships and marines to the region, raising concerns about further escalation. Analysts suggest Iran is likely to withstand these attacks, unlike Venezuela.

U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke on Sunday regarding the escalating conflict in the Middle East, specifically focusing on the blocked Strait of Hormuz. The leaders agreed that reopening the strait, a vital route for global oil supply, was essential for global energy market stability. The Strait has been blocked by Iran since coordinated U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iranian targets on February 28, triggering a broader regional war. Trump had issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran on March 21 demanding the strait's reopening, threatening further action if it was not met. The conversation signals a potential improvement in relations between Trump and Starmer, who previously disagreed on the use of UK military bases in the conflict.

Following "good and productive conversations" with Tehran, former President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he has ordered the US military to postpone strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for five days. This decision comes after Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran on Saturday, demanding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz or face obliteration of its power plants. Iran threatened to close the strait, a critical oil transit point, and retaliate against energy facilities in Israel and Gulf countries. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that if the US attacked, they would target power plants supplying US bases and economic infrastructure where Americans have shares. Iran also threatened to mine Gulf shipping routes if its southern coast was attacked.

US President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran on Saturday, demanding the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump threatened to "obliterate" Iranian power plants if the demand was not met. The ultimatum followed reports from Israeli officials that Iran had launched long-range missiles for the first time, with one strike injuring dozens near Israel's nuclear site. According to the Israeli military, Iran fired two ballistic missiles at the US-UK military base Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. The Israeli military stated that these missiles, while not targeting Israel, have the range to reach European capitals.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged support for potential US strikes on Iran's power grid if Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking from the site of an Iranian strike in Arad, Netanyahu emphasized US-Israeli cooperation, stating actions would be taken "together, and as far as possible, in confidence." He also called on world leaders to join the effort against Iran. The article reports that joint US-Israeli attacks on Iran have already resulted in over 1,500 deaths and thousands of injuries. The context suggests escalating tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran.

Tensions are escalating between Iran and Israel. Recently, Iranian missiles struck two communities in southern Israel, injuring dozens and damaging buildings in Dimona and Arad. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on the international community to join the US and Israel against Iran. Israel has also targeted infrastructure in Lebanon, destroying a bridge over the Litani River amidst renewed conflict with Hezbollah. Amidst these events, Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz.

In March 2026, Iranian missiles struck the Israeli towns of Arad and Dimona, near a nuclear research center, wounding at least 180 people. Iran stated the attack was retaliation for an Israeli strike on its Natanz nuclear facility. The incident marks a potentially more lethal phase in the ongoing Israeli-United States war on Iran, which began on February 28 and has already injured thousands in Israel. Analysts suggest the attack raises questions about whether Israel has underestimated Iran's military capabilities, particularly its extensive and varied missile program. Iran's missile arsenal includes short, medium, and long-range ballistic and cruise missiles.

On March 22, 2026, the UK condemned an alleged Iranian missile attack targeting the joint US-UK military base on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. US media reported that two ballistic missiles were launched, with one failing and the other intercepted by a US warship. An Iranian official denied Iran's involvement in the incident, which occurred after the US and Israel initiated a war on Iran in February, aiming to dismantle Iran's nuclear and missile programs. The US has not officially commented on the missile launch. The alleged attack happened hours before the UK agreed to allow the US to use its military bases for self-defense measures against Iran. Diego Garcia is located 4,000km from Iran.

Iran launched ballistic missiles towards the UK-US Diego Garcia base in the Indian Ocean, nearly 4,000km from its coast, signaling its continued capabilities amidst ongoing conflict. The launch, occurring after three weeks of US-Israeli bombardment, demonstrates a missile range exceeding previous estimates of 3,000km for Iranian medium-range ballistic missiles. While a UK official stated the attack was unsuccessful, experts note the significance of Iran's ability to strike such a distant target. The Diego Garcia base is a military facility used by the US for missions related to the conflict with Iran. This action suggests Iran aims to demonstrate its strategic reach despite facing military pressure.

Iran reportedly launched two intermediate-range ballistic missiles toward Diego Garcia, a U.S.-U.K. military base in the Indian Ocean, on Friday. The alleged launch, approximately 2,500 miles from Iran, suggests that Iran's missile capabilities exceed previously stated limits. Prior to Operation Epic Fury on February 28th, Iranian officials claimed their missiles had a range below 2,000 km. An Israeli Defense Forces spokesperson stated the missiles had a 4,000 km range and were capable of reaching European capitals. Experts suggest this action proves the Trump administration's concerns about Iran's missile capabilities were justified and that Iran's missile program poses a significant threat.

According to US media reports, Iran launched ballistic missiles at a military base on Diego Garcia in the Chagos Islands, a territory jointly used by the UK and the US. The reported attack occurred on Friday morning and involved two medium-range missiles. While the missiles were launched, reports indicate they failed to hit the facility. As of yet, neither the UK nor the US governments have publicly confirmed the incident. The Chagos Islands are currently subject to a diplomatic dispute involving the UK, the US, and Mauritius. The reports also mention US President Trump's criticism of UK Prime Minister Starmer's refusal to authorize the base's use for US-Israeli strikes against Iran.

The US-Israeli war against Iran, ongoing for three weeks, is currently characterized by mixed messages and uncertainty. Despite President Trump's claims that the war is "very complete" and "winding down," the US is deploying additional ground forces and continuing airstrikes on Iranian targets. While Trump insists opening the Strait of Hormuz is a "simple military maneuver," only Iranian-approved ships are passing through. Trump threatened to target Iranian power plants if Hormuz isn't fully opened within 48 hours. His stated objectives for the war include degrading Iran's military, defense infrastructure, and nuclear program, as well as protecting US allies. Notably absent from his objectives is securing the Strait of Hormuz, which he believes should be the responsibility of other nations. Also absent are previous demands for Iranian regime change or "unconditional surrender."

On March 21, 2026, Iran struck the Israeli cities of Dimona, home to a key nuclear facility, and nearby Arad, wounding at least 180 people. The Iranian government stated the missile strikes were retaliation for an earlier attack on its Natanz nuclear enrichment complex. Israeli officials reported that air defense systems were activated but failed to intercept all missiles. The attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Iran and the US-Israel alliance, which has been ongoing for four weeks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue attacking Iran in response.

On Saturday, an Iranian missile struck Dimona, an Israeli town housing a nuclear facility, while a second missile hit Arad. The Israeli military confirmed a direct hit on a building in Dimona, despite the use of air defense interceptors. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed continued strikes against Iran following what he described as a "very difficult evening," referencing the missile strikes that wounded scores of people. Iranian state television claimed the missile attack on Dimona was a retaliatory response to an earlier strike on Iran's nuclear site at Natanz. The extent of the damage in Dimona included a large crater, rubble, and damaged surrounding buildings.

In March 2026, the war between the US, Israel, and Iran entered its fourth week, resulting in over 1,400 deaths in Iran, including many children. The conflict began with attacks on Iran, followed by Iranian retaliation against Israel and US bases, including a missile strike on the Diego Garcia base. Iran has threatened further action against Western countries, Gulf states, and global shipping, citing self-defense after the UK allowed the US to use its bases for strikes. The Iranian military has launched numerous attacks on Israel and US bases in the Gulf, escalating conflict at energy sites. Millions of Iranians observed Eid al-Fitr and Nowruz amidst the ongoing conflict and anti-Western protests. The US is reportedly considering winding down the conflict but has ruled out a ceasefire.

The article discusses the international response to a war initiated by Donald Trump and Israel against Iran. It argues that Trump's actions have backfired, failing to garner support from allies and instead pushing them towards new alliances. Specifically, the Financial Times reported that allies rejected Trump's request for warships to open the Strait of Hormuz. The article suggests that Trump's approach, contrasting with advice from books like "How to Win Friends and Influence People," has alienated leaders and created incentives for major powers like China and Japan to unite against a potential global crisis. The war has strained US relations with these countries, particularly impacting Japan's relationship with both the US and China, as evidenced by the events surrounding Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's visit to Washington.

According to Iran's IRGC, spokesperson Brigadier General Ali Mohammad Naini was killed in joint US-Israeli strikes. The IRGC announced Naini's death on Friday, stating he was killed in a "criminal cowardly terrorist attack." This comes amid escalating attacks and assassinations of senior Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in late February. Naini's death occurred shortly after he affirmed Iran's continued missile production capabilities on national television. The Israeli army reported carrying out strikes across eastern Tehran as Iran marks the Persian New Year. The recent events have created a somber atmosphere in Tehran.

Amid escalating tensions, a fire broke out at Kuwait's Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery on Friday following a drone attack, a day after Qatar's Ras Laffan facility was hit. These incidents occurred after Iran vowed retaliation for an Israeli strike on its South Pars gas field on Wednesday. Despite calls from European leaders to cease targeting Gulf energy infrastructure, Iran has continued its strikes and asserted its missile production remains unaffected. The escalating damage to Gulf infrastructure has caused a spike in oil and gas prices, raising concerns about potential long-term disruptions to global supplies. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims Iran's missile manufacturing capabilities are diminished, Iran maintains otherwise.

On day 21 of the US-Israel attacks against Iran, tensions are escalating, with Iran warning of "zero restraint" if its energy facilities are targeted again after Israel struck the South Pars gasfield. Iran retaliated with attacks on Haifa, Israel, and Ras Laffan, Qatar, also launching missile and drone strikes on US bases and Israeli cities. The conflict has resulted in a significant humanitarian toll in Iran, with thousands injured and over 1,400 deaths reported. Disruptions to energy supplies have caused global oil and gas prices to surge. France is seeking UN Security Council action to secure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil and gas chokepoint. The role of the US Ramstein Air Base in Germany is also under scrutiny by Iran.

In a written Nowruz message broadcast on Iranian television, Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei stated that Iran's enemies are being "defeated" despite ongoing attacks from the US and Israel. Khamenei praised the Iranian people's resilience and declared the new year as one of "resistance economy under national unity and national security." He claimed that the unity among Iranians, despite their differences, has led to the enemy's defeat. Khamenei, who assumed leadership after his father's assassination in February, asserted that the US and Israel miscalculated by believing attacks would lead to the government's overthrow. He added that the enemy's plan to dominate and dismember Iran has failed, resulting in a "fracture" within their ranks.

In a social media post, former U.S. President Trump criticized NATO allies for their perceived lack of support in the ongoing U.S.-Israel war against Iran, which began on February 28th. Trump stated that NATO is a "paper tiger" without the United States. He called on NATO countries to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, controlled by Iran, claiming this would alleviate high oil prices. Trump asserted that the military conflict is won with little danger to NATO countries, and labeled them "cowards" for not participating in opening the Strait of Hormuz. He warned that the U.S. will remember their inaction. The conflict has reportedly disrupted global markets, resulted in thousands of deaths, and displaced millions.

In a press conference on March 20, 2026, Benjamin Netanyahu addressed both Israeli citizens and international media regarding the ongoing war with Iran. Netanyahu stated that substantial advancements had been achieved in the first 20 days of the conflict. While acknowledging these gains, he also suggested that further military action is anticipated. Al Jazeera's Rob McBride analyzed Netanyahu's statements, highlighting the Prime Minister's assertion that a "ground component" is necessary for the war effort. The purpose of the address was to update the public and international community on the progress and future direction of the war.

President Trump stated he is considering "winding down" US military operations against Iran, three weeks into the conflict. He indicated the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil passage, would need to be policed by other nations, not the United States. Trump listed objectives for the war, including preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, destroying its military capabilities, and protecting Gulf allies. Despite the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the deployment of additional Marines to the Middle East, Trump signaled a potential end to the conflict. His statement marks the strongest indication yet of a possible de-escalation of US military involvement in the region.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured US support for strikes against Iran, a long-sought goal. The attacks have resulted in significant casualties in Iran and Lebanon, with regional spillover effects. The conflict has triggered economic consequences, including rising oil prices, and political divisions within the US and between the US and its allies. Despite these global repercussions, the article suggests the war could benefit Netanyahu by addressing his long-standing concerns about the Iranian threat. Netanyahu has consistently portrayed Iran as an existential threat to Israel, and this conflict allows him to confront it with US backing, something he has sought for years. The ultimate outcome of the war remains uncertain.

In a news conference on March 20, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that Iran can no longer enrich uranium or produce ballistic missiles following 20 days of US-Israeli air strikes. He stated that the strikes are decimating Iran's missile and drone arsenal by destroying factories producing components for missiles and nuclear weapons. The US and Israel launched the air attacks on February 28 after mediated talks regarding Iran's nuclear program collapsed. Iran has retaliated by firing missiles at Israel and other Gulf countries and limiting tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Netanyahu noted that it is too soon to determine if the conflict will lead to the overthrow of the Iranian government.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Israel acted alone in attacking Iran's South Pars gas field, part of the world's largest natural gas field, amidst escalating tensions over energy infrastructure strikes. The attacks, which included Iranian retaliation against energy targets in Qatar and the Gulf, led to a spike in energy prices. While unnamed Israeli officials claimed the South Pars attack was coordinated with the US, President Trump stated he was unaware and requested no further attacks on energy targets. Netanyahu denied misleading Trump or dragging the US into the conflict. The attacks mark an escalation in the war against Iran, which has restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global energy supplies. Qatar warned of significant repercussions following an attack on its LNG processing plant, while Iran vowed to show "zero restraint" if its infrastructure is struck again.

Israel reported that an Iranian missile attack struck an oil refinery in Haifa, northern Israel, on Thursday. Energy Minister Eli Cohen stated that while power was briefly disrupted, no significant damage to the refinery or other infrastructure occurred. The attack is part of a wider exchange of strikes between Iran and Israel, with Iran retaliating for an Israeli attack on its South Pars offshore gasfield on Wednesday. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed firing missiles towards Haifa and Ashdod, with the attack on Haifa confirmed and the status of Ashdod unclear. Iran has warned it will show "ZERO restraint" if its infrastructure is struck again.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Iran no longer possesses the ability to enrich uranium or manufacture ballistic missiles. The statement was made nearly three weeks into the US-Israeli war. Netanyahu also claimed that Israel is actively working to create divisions within Iran's leadership. The context of the statement is the ongoing US-Israeli war, although the specific reasons for making the claim at this time were not detailed in the article. The location of these alleged actions and capabilities is within Iran.

Following the assassinations of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and security chief Ali Larijani in March 2026, questions have arisen regarding Iran's leadership and power dynamics. The assassinations, which began with attacks by Israel and the US in late February, have created uncertainty about the chain of command. While Mojtaba Khamenei has been announced as the new Supreme Leader, his lack of experience and reported injuries raise concerns. Analysts suggest that lesser-known figures may rise to power, and Iran might delay naming a successor to Larijani for security reasons. Potential influential figures include Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Saeed Jalili. The situation remains fluid, with the exact power structure in Tehran unclear.

According to Israeli national security sources, Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is not effectively controlling the regime. Since his father's death in late February, Mojtaba has not made any public appearances, with some reports claiming he was injured in the strike that killed his father. Despite Iranian officials' claims of good health, sources suggest Mojtaba is an "empty entity" and the Iranian leadership is "broken" and "misfunctioning." A message attributed to Mojtaba was broadcast on Iranian state TV, vowing revenge for recent Israeli strikes that have killed several senior Iranian officials, including Ali Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani. These strikes are part of what the IDF describes as a continuing and successful effort.

President Trump reportedly expressed displeasure to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding an Israeli strike on a gas field. The strike's impact caused significant disruption in energy markets. Trump's complaint suggests a divergence in strategy between the two nations. However, Israeli officials claim that the U.S. government was notified in advance of the operation. The discrepancy between Trump's reaction and Israel's assertion raises questions about the coordination and communication between the two allied countries regarding the strike. The incident highlights potential disagreements on military actions and their impact on global markets.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz claimed on Wednesday that the Israeli military killed Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib. Katz stated that further "significant surprises" were expected but provided no details. There has been no confirmation of Khatib's death from Iranian sources. Katz also said he and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu authorized the military to kill other targeted senior Iranian officials without further approval. This alleged killing follows previous Israeli actions against other high-ranking Iranian security officials, including Ali Larijani and the head of the Basij force. Khatib was sanctioned by the US Treasury in 2022 for alleged cyber activities against the United States and its allies.

On March 18, 2026, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced that an overnight strike killed Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib. The announcement was reported by NewsFeed. According to Katz, the Israeli military is authorized to target high-ranking Iranian officials without needing further governmental approval. As of the time of the report, there has been no confirmation of Khatib's death from Iranian sources. The reason for the alleged strike was not stated in the report.

Israel claims to have killed Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib in an overnight strike, following reported deaths of two other senior Iranian officials in the past 24 hours. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that he and Prime Minister Netanyahu authorized the military to kill targeted Iranian officials without further approval. Katz also indicated increased strikes against Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon. These events occur amidst an ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran, now in its third week, with thousands reported dead and the Strait of Hormuz largely closed. Former US President Trump suggested the US could eliminate the Iranian state and leave the Strait's security to other countries. Israeli media reports that the IDF gathered intelligence leading to the declared deaths of the Iranian officials.

Chinese experts are analyzing recent US and Israeli decapitation strikes in Iran and Venezuela to draw lessons applicable to potential military operations closer to home, specifically regarding Taiwan. Since February 28, 2026, the US and Israel have eliminated several high-ranking Iranian officials, including the supreme leader and military commanders, through targeted strikes. Despite these losses, Iran has retaliated with drone and missile attacks, demonstrating resilience unlike Venezuela's response to a similar US operation. Experts believe Iran's power structure and geographic conditions contribute to its ability to withstand leadership decapitation. One analyst suggests Beijing would view a decapitation strike on Taiwan as part of a larger amphibious landing operation, and that the US would likely need ground forces to achieve regime change in Iran, a factor Beijing would consider for any Taiwan operation.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz claimed Israel killed Iran's intelligence minister, Esmaeil Khatib, which, if confirmed, would be the third high-profile assassination of Iranian leaders in two days. This follows the reported deaths of security chief Ali Larijani and Basij paramilitary head Gholamreza Soleimani in Israeli air strikes on Tuesday. Iran has not confirmed Khatib's death but will hold funerals for Larijani and Soleimani on Wednesday. Katz also announced that he and Prime Minister Netanyahu authorized the military to eliminate other senior Iranian officials without requiring further approval. The alleged assassinations come amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, with Iran launching a retaliatory missile attack on Israel.

On March 18, 2026, Iran confirmed the death of its national security chief, Ali Larijani, following an Israeli air strike. This comes less than three weeks after the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes. Israel has vowed to "neutralize" the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. Larijani, a close confidant of the late Ayatollah, played a key role in Iran's retaliatory actions during the ongoing war in the Middle East. The assassination occurred amidst rising tensions, with Iran threatening shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and the US criticizing allies for not assisting in escorting oil tankers.

In March 2026, following the killings of Ali Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted the stability of Iran's political system. Araghchi stated that the Islamic Republic is designed to endure disruptions, even the loss of high-ranking officials. He emphasized that the system's strength lies in its structure, preventing any single individual from destabilizing it. The statement was made in response to concerns about the potential impact of the targeted killings on Iran's internal affairs and regional influence. The foreign minister's comments aimed to reassure both domestic and international audiences about the resilience of the Iranian government.

On March 17, 2026, the Israeli military claimed responsibility for the assassination of Gholamreza Soleimani, commander of Iran's Basij militia unit, in a targeted airstrike in Tehran. The claim, made via social media, states the strike was guided by military intelligence. Separately, the Israeli Defence Minister claimed Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, was also killed in a strike. Iran has not confirmed or denied either claim. Soleimani, sanctioned by the US and EU for his role in suppressing dissent, commanded the Basij, a paramilitary force responsible for internal security, for the past six years. If confirmed, these would be the highest-level assassinations since the start of the war on February 28.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced that Ali Larijani, Iran's national security chief, and General Gholam Reza Soleimani, head of the Basij paramilitary force, were "eliminated" in a Tehran strike. Katz stated he was informed of the event by the Chief of Staff. The alleged killings follow a previous strike that reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in February. Iranian state media acknowledged Larijani's existence through a published note, but there was no official comment from Tehran regarding Katz's statement. Larijani, a former parliamentary speaker and advisor, was a key figure in Iranian politics and nuclear strategy. Soleimani headed the Basij, a major Iranian paramilitary organization.

Israel claims to have killed Ali Larijani, Iran's national security chief, in recent airstrikes. If confirmed, Larijani would be the highest-ranking Iranian official killed since the start of the war, potentially removing a key figure from Iran's political and security establishment. The alleged killing comes amidst rising oil and gas prices, triggered by Iran's successful attacks on production facilities. Brent crude reached $103.2 a barrel on Tuesday. Confirmation of Larijani's death could have significant implications for the region.

Ali Larijani, Iran's security chief and a key figure in shaping national strategy, was killed in an Israeli air strike. As secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Larijani was central to decisions on war, diplomacy, and national security, especially regarding the US and Israel. His death, confirmed by state media, follows a series of killings of senior Iranian officials, suggesting a deliberate effort to weaken Iran's leadership during wartime. Larijani was managing the ongoing war, domestic unrest, and stalled nuclear negotiations at the time of his death. His removal leaves these crises unresolved and creates a leadership vacuum amid a fragile situation, with any successor facing immediate risk.

Ali Larijani, a powerful and central figure in Iranian politics for decades, has been assassinated. The Iranian government confirmed the death of Larijani, who held the position of security chief, on March 17, 2026. This marks the highest-ranking Iranian official assassination since Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Larijani's death is a significant event due to his long-standing influence and high-level position within the Iranian government. The assassination occurred amidst ongoing tensions in the region, although the article does not specify the location.

Ali Larijani, a close confidant of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is a top security official in Iran. Following Khamenei's death, Larijani has become a prominent figure in the Iranian government. He is now the face of the government, stepping into a leadership role after the death of the previous leader. Larijani's close relationship with Khamenei positions him as a key player in Iran's political landscape. His emergence signifies a potential shift in power dynamics within the country.

Ali Larijani is a top security official in Iran and a close confidant of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Following Khamenei's death, Larijani has become the prominent face of the Iranian government. He is a key figure in Iranian politics and national security. The article highlights Larijani's rise to prominence after a significant event, positioning him as a central figure in the country's leadership. His close relationship with the former leader underscores his influence and importance within the Iranian political system.

In a news conference on March 12, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is "stronger than ever" amidst its ongoing war with Iran, alongside the United States, which began on February 28. Netanyahu claimed the attacks have severely damaged Iran's nuclear and ballistic projects, killed top nuclear scientists, and inflicted damage on the IRGC and Basij forces. He asserted that the war has prevented Iran from moving its nuclear projects underground. Netanyahu also addressed Iranian protesters, expressing support while emphasizing their role in changing their government. He further stated that the war has enabled Israel to forge new alliances in the region, despite Iranian drone and missile attacks on Gulf countries.

In a recent press conference, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu threatened Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, following joint air strikes with the US. Netanyahu stated that Iran has suffered significant blows to its Revolutionary Guards Corps and Basij paramilitary force since the start of the war. He vowed continued attacks against Hezbollah in Lebanon after they retaliated for Israel's killing of the previous Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. When questioned about potential actions against Mojtaba Khamenei and Hezbollah's chief, Netanyahu declined to provide specifics but suggested neither should feel secure. He described the new Supreme Leader as a "puppet of the Revolutionary Guards" who is unable to appear in public.

A key Israeli legal office has advised against pardoning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at this time. The opinion comes in response to reported pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to consider a pardon. The office stated that a pardon would only be appropriate if Netanyahu resigns from his position, confesses to alleged crimes, or is formally convicted in court. Netanyahu is currently facing trial on corruption charges, which he denies. The legal office's stance effectively blocks any potential preemptive pardon, maintaining that due process must be followed before such action is considered.