Al Jazeera News Updates Israel says it killed Iran's Basij commander, US Pentagon sending more warships to Middle East
Mar 17, 2026
Breaking international tensions as Israel claims it killed a top Iranian Basij commander and other senior figures. A deep dive into the political history and military roles of the targeted leaders. Coverage of the US sending additional warships and Marines to the Middle East amid rising regional strain.
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Israel Announces Killings Of Iranian Security Figures
- Israel announced the killings of two senior Iranian security figures, including Ali Larijani.
- Al Jazeera Reporter relayed Defence Minister Israel Katz's statement that Larijani and the head of the Besij were eliminated in a strike last night.
Ali Larijani's Longstanding Political Profile
- Ali Larijani is a long-standing figure in Iranian politics with roles from IRGC service to Speaker of Parliament.
- Al Jazeera News Updates Host noted Larijani's recent appointment as Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council and past 2005 presidential run.
Larijani's Defiant Reaction To Airstrikes
- After the US-Israeli airstrikes that reportedly killed Iran's supreme leader, Larijani issued a defiant message threatening retaliation.
- The host quoted Larijani saying the attacks 'set the heart of the Iranian nation ablaze' and vowed Iran would 'burn its enemies' hearts.'