What Happened to Ali Ardashir Larijani?

Ali Larijani, born in Najaf, Iraq, in 1958, has been a central figure in Iranian politics for over four decades, known for his pragmatic conservative stance and deep ties to the clerical and security establishments. His career began in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the early 1980s, followed by ministerial roles and a decade as the head of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) from 1994 to 2004, where he significantly shaped Iran's media narrative.

Larijani's national prominence grew when he served as Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) and chief nuclear negotiator from 2005 to 2007, engaging in early talks with Western powers over Iran's nuclear program. Despite his resignation due to differences with then-President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, he remained influential, serving as Speaker of the Parliament from 2008 to 2020, one of the longest tenures in that position. During this time, he played a crucial role in securing parliamentary approval for the 2015 nuclear agreement (JCPOA).

A significant turning point in his career came with his disqualification by the Guardian Council from the 2021 and 2024 presidential elections, moves widely seen as efforts to consolidate power behind hardline factions. Despite these setbacks, Larijani's influence did not wane. He continued to serve on the Expediency Discernment Council and was tasked by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in 2021 to negotiate a 25-year strategic agreement with China.

His political comeback was solidified on August 5, 2025, when President Masoud Pezeshkian reappointed him as Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, a position he previously held. This reappointment placed him at the heart of Iran's strategic apparatus, coordinating national security and defense policies. In July 2025, he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss Middle East escalation and Iran's nuclear program, highlighting his renewed diplomatic role.

The most recent and dramatic developments occurred in early 2026. Following the reported death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during a war, Larijani emerged as a central figure, described by some as the country's most powerful man and de facto wartime leader. On March 1, 2026, he announced he would head an interim committee to run the country. The United States also imposed new sanctions on him on January 15, 2026, for his alleged role in repressing protestors. As of March 17, 2026, Israeli media outlets reported that the IDF attempted to assassinate Ali Larijani in an overnight airstrike. His condition (killed or injured) remains unconfirmed, and Iran has not yet issued an official statement, though one is expected soon. This event marks a critical moment in the ongoing regional conflict and Iran's leadership transition.