Life of Iranian political veteran and nuclear negotiator Ali Larijani

Ali Larijani, a veteran Iranian politician, former parliament speaker and head of Iran’s National Security Council, has died, leaving behind a legacy of decades-long influence in the country’s political, military and diplomatic affairs.

Born in Najaf, Iraq, Larijani rose to prominence as a fearless and outspoken figure known for challenging the United States and Israel.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and computer science, followed by a PhD in philosophy from Tehran University, frequently writing on German philosopher Immanuel Kant.

Larijani, 67, joined Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and quickly became a key player in the Islamic Republic’s domestic and foreign policy.

Hailing from one of Iran’s most powerful political and religious families, he was widely regarded as a centrist conservative and one of the country’s most influential figures, also vying in multiple presidential elections.

Over a career spanning five decades, Larijani held nearly every major governmental position except the presidency.

He served as Iran’s parliament speaker for 12 years, chief negotiator for the country’s nuclear program, and as culture minister.

From August 2025, he headed Iran’s National Security Council, responsible for defense, intelligence, and foreign policy; he had previously held the same position from 2005 to 2007.

Larijani was considered a principal architect of Iran’s security policy and a close adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

He commanded forces during the Iran-Iraq war and played a pivotal role in shaping Iran’s domestic and foreign strategies.

He was known for openly sharing his views on US and Israeli policies and had survived multiple threats, including a bounty reportedly placed on him by US President Donald Trump.

In recent public statements, Larijani warned that Iran had prepared for a protracted conflict in contrast to US forces, and he urged Gulf states to reconsider their reliance on the United States and confront the reality of Israel as an adversary.

He remained active in public discourse, participating in street rallies and sharing his philosophical reflections on life, death, and justice.

Larijani’s death marks the end of a defining era in Iran’s politics, leaving behind a reputation as a cautious yet fearless strategist, deeply involved in the country’s legislative, diplomatic, and security affairs.