Following the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Saturday in a missile strike, seasoned politician Ali Larijani has announced the formation of an “interim management council” to oversee the country’s governance. The announcement was made on Sunday amid mounting regional and domestic uncertainty.
Over the past year, Larijani has established himself as one of the most influential figures within Iran’s security apparatus. From overseeing nuclear negotiations to managing regional relations and suppressing domestic unrest, he has consistently played a pivotal role in maintaining the state’s internal and external stability.
Experienced Policy-Maker
Born into one of Iran’s most prominent religious families, Larijani has long been embedded in the country’s political elite. Despite being sanctioned by the United States in January for his role in suppressing anti-government protests, he continued to supervise Iran’s nuclear dialogue with Washington.
In a televised address on Sunday, Larijani accused the United States and Israel of attempting to destabilise Iran, warning that any “separatist groups” seeking to exploit the situation would face a firm response. The same strike also claimed the life of Iran’s Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Abdur Rahim Musavi.
Trusted Strategist of Khamenei
Since his appointment as Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) last August, Larijani has been widely recognised as a trusted strategist of Khamenei. In recent months, he visited Oman for indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States and has undertaken multiple trips to Moscow to strengthen security ties with Russia.
Larijani has demonstrated a relatively pragmatic approach to nuclear issues. Speaking to Omani television, he remarked, “In my view, this problem is solvable. If the United States’ concerns are limited to Iran’s nuclear weapons programme, then these can be discussed.”
Role in Protests and Sanctions
Despite his pragmatic image, Larijani played a central role in the crackdown on massive nationwide protests in January. The United States has identified him as one of the senior leaders responsible for authorising the use of force against demonstrators. According to several Western human rights organisations, the unrest resulted in thousands of casualties. While Larijani acknowledged the protests as public responses to economic hardship, he labelled armed demonstrators as “urban semi-terrorists.”
Political Career Highlights
| Position | Period | Key Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Revolutionary Guard Member | 1980s | Participated in Iran’s military and security operations |
| Nuclear Negotiator | 2005–2007 | Hardline supporter of uranium enrichment; critical of European proposals |
| Parliament Speaker | 2008–2020 | Oversaw legislative affairs; presided over 2015 nuclear deal with world powers |
| SNSC Secretary | 2023–Present | Trusted strategist of Khamenei; regional security and diplomacy |
Personal Background
Born in 1958 in Najaf, Iraq, Larijani hails from a distinguished clerical family. Several of his brothers have held senior positions in Iran’s judiciary and foreign ministry.
Future Challenges
Although barred from contesting the 2021 and 2024 presidential elections by Iran’s Guardian Council, Larijani has positioned himself as a central “power broker” during this unprecedented leadership vacuum. With Khamenei’s absence, he now emerges as one of the most influential figures in directing Iran’s political and strategic course.
