Ali Larijani Emerges as Key Security Leader in Iran After Khamenei's Death

Following the reported death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli airstrikes, veteran Iranian politician Ali Larijani has emerged as a central figure in Iran's security leadership. Larijani, appointed Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council in August, has a long career marked by loyalty to Khamenei and involvement in nuclear negotiations and regional security. Coming from a prominent clerical family, he now leads Tehran's response amid heightened tensions, with recent diplomatic engagements including talks with Oman and Russia.