Iran has confirmed that its senior security chief, Ali Larijani, was killed in an Israeli strike, marking the most high-profile assassination since the start of the conflict.

Larijani, considered one of the most powerful figures in Iran’s leadership, was killed along with his son and deputy in an overnight attack, according to Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.

Iran Rejects De-Escalation Calls

The killing comes as Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, rejected proposals for a ceasefire with the United States.

According to a senior Iranian official, Khamenei said it was not the “right time for peace” and insisted that the United States and Israel must first accept defeat.

This signals that Tehran is prepared for a prolonged conflict despite international calls for restraint.

Conflict Spreads And Oil Prices Surge

The war has now entered its third week, expanding across the region with no signs of de-escalation.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which around a fifth of global oil passes, remains largely closed as Iran threatens attacks on tankers. Oil prices have surged sharply, raising fears of global inflation and economic disruption.

European leaders have urged diplomatic solutions, warning of wider crises affecting food, energy and global supply chains.

Rising Casualties And Regional Impact

Missile exchanges between Iran and Israel have continued, with casualties reported in Tel Aviv following Iranian strikes.

Iran has also launched attacks across the Gulf, targeting infrastructure and areas linked to U.S. and allied presence.

The conflict has already resulted in thousands of deaths, with humanitarian concerns growing as the war intensifies.

Global Tensions Increase

The crisis has exposed divisions among U.S. allies, with many NATO countries declining to join the conflict despite pressure from Washington.

At the same time, questions have been raised within the United States over the justification for entering the war.

(with inputs from Reuters)