NYT: Assassination of Khamenei’s top aide might backfire
Photo: Iran’s Supreme National Security Council secretary Ali Larijani (Getty Images)
Israel has killed Iran’s Supreme National Security Council secretary Ali Larijani. He was considered a highly influential figure capable of stopping escalation. Now that the voice is gone, and the consequences could turn out differently than expected, according to The New York Times.
Who Ali Larijani is and why it matters
After previous airstrikes eliminated Iran’s top leadership — both military and civilian — US airstrikes leave Iran’s Supreme National Security Council secretary Ali Larijani effectively as one of the main faces of power in the country, aside from Mojtaba Khamenei, who is injured and whose ability to govern is uncertain.
He is one of the few in the regime considered a pragmatist, in particular someone capable of influencing potential negotiations with the US.
Possible consequences are uncertain
According to reports, Larijani’s death removes one of the most prominent voices in Iranian politics advocating caution.
But there is another side. His death may strengthen the position of those in leadership who believe the Islamic Republic can survive only by sharply increasing pressure and refusing concessions.
In other words, instead of weakening, the regime could respond with escalation.
Larijani’s death is not the first blow to Iran’s top leadership. Over the past three weeks, US airstrikes have systematically eliminated the country’s highest-ranking military commanders and civilian officials.
As a result, Iran has lost nearly its entire command structure that shaped state policy.
At the same time, Iran continues to attack Middle Eastern countries and has blocked the Strait of Hormuz, causing global oil prices to surge.
