Iran's security chief Ali Larijani killed in Israeli strike. The death of Iran's national security chief and key wartime leader represents a major escalation in the ongoing conflict. Larijani, described by Israel as Iran's de facto leader, was eliminated alongside his son in an overnight airstrike. This marks the most significant Iranian leadership loss since former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death on February 28. The killing intensifies uncertainty about Iran's remaining command structure and prospects for negotiated peace. With hardliners now positioned to consolidate control, the strike threatens to further destabilize the region and complicate diplomatic resolution efforts in an 18-day conflict already sending shockwaves through global markets and oil prices.
