Ali Larijani shares message on X shortly after Israel claims to have killed him in overnight strikes

Shortly after Israel claimed to have killed top Iranian officials, including Iranian Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani, in overnight strikes, the top Iranian leader on Tuesday shared a message on his X social media handle.

“On the occasion of the funeral ceremony for the valiant martyrs of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s Navy: Their memory will forever remain in the heart of the Iranian nation, and these martyrdoms will strengthen the foundation of the Islamic Republic’s Army for years to come within the structure of the armed forces. I beseech the Almighty God for the highest ranks for these dear martyrs,” read Larijani’s message.

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However, there was no firm denial or confirmation on whether he is dead or alive.

The post came moments after the Israel Defence Forces claimed to have hit Larijani and head of public repression Gholamreza Soleimani, commander of the Basij unit, in overnight strikes.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz also made a similar claim. He said that overnight strikes killed Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani and Basij commander Gholamreza Soleimani.

“The prime minister and I have instructed the IDF to continue hunting down the leadership of the regime of terror and oppression in Iran,” Katz said.

Larijani, who was last seen on Friday while taking part in Quds Day rallies, was reportedly attacked with his son in a hideout apartment.

Iran is yet to officially comment on the Israeli claims even as the social media post from Larijani’s handle sought to dismiss them.

The US and Israeli strikes have already killed several top political and military leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The targeting of Larijani came amid Iran’s attempts to kill Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Tehran claimed that Netanyahu was targeted and believed to be dead. However, the Israeli PM shared two social media videos on X to dismiss the claims.