Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei on Wednesday (March 18) issued a strong warning to the United States and Israel following the assassination of senior security figure Ali Larijani, calling for accountability during a period of escalating conflict.
Warning issued during funeral
In a written message released during Larijani's funeral in Tehran, Mojtaba Khamenei signalled retaliation, stating that those responsible would face consequences.
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In a message published on his official Telegram channel, Iranain Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said, "Every drop of spilled blood comes at a price." He vowed that "the criminal murderers of these martyrs will soon have to pay it".
He described the killing as proof of Larijani's importance and the hostility directed toward him. "Without a doubt, the assassination of such a figure attests to his importance and to the hatred that the enemies of Islam harbour toward him," he said.
The statement came as the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict entered its 19th day, with tensions continuing to rise across the region.
A major loss for Iran’s leadership
Ali Larijani was among the most influential figures in Iran's political and security establishment. A former parliament speaker and long-time adviser within the leadership, he played a key role in policy decisions, particularly around nuclear negotiations.
His killing marks one of the most significant blows to Iran's leadership since the death of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a joint US-Israel strike at the start of the conflict. His death was confirmed on March 1.
Following that development, Larijani had emerged as one of the most senior figures in Iran’s power structure to be targeted.
Questions over Mojtaba Khamenei's condition
Mojtaba Khamenei, who succeeded his father as Supreme Leader, has yet to make a public appearance since taking office. His absence has led to speculation about his health and security.
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Last week, US officials claimed he had been injured in a "chaotic environment" and was "likely disfigured". During a March 13 briefing, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth pointed to the absence of video or audio messages, noting that a recent statement was issued only in written form.
He said the "new so-called, not so supreme, leader is wounded and likely disfigured", and questioned his legitimacy.
However, Yousef Pezeshkian, son of President Masoud Pezeshkian, said the leader had sustained injuries but remained "safe and sound".
