Ali Larijani speaks on Iran-Israel war in rare interview, amid rising post-Khamenei succession speculation.
TEHRAN, Iran — Ali Larijani, senior advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader and member of the Expediency Discernment Council, has commented on the recent 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel in a rare interview with Student News Network (SNN).
His remarks have reignited public discourse around Iran’s post-Khamenei succession amid reports that he may be positioning himself as a future leader.
Post-Khamenei Succession Speculation Gains Momentum
In a report by IranWire, two credible sources claimed that Larijani is maneuvering to become a key contender in the era following Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Although Larijani did not address succession directly in his televised remarks, observers say the timing and tone of his interview signal deeper political intentions.
“Strategic patience should guide Iran’s actions in the region,” Larijani stated when asked about the conflict.
The language contrasts sharply with the rhetoric from Iran’s more hardline elements and appears designed to project a moderate leadership profile suitable for future governance.
Iran Leadership Dynamics and Internal Positioning
Larijani, who previously served as speaker of parliament and head of Iran’s state broadcaster, is known for his pragmatic and institutionalist approach.
His reemergence during a turbulent period of regional tension and internal uncertainty has prompted political analysts to reassess his potential role in Iran’s long-term political roadmap.
According to Radio Farda, figures like Larijani who combine technocratic skills with loyalty to the Islamic Republic’s framework may gain prominence in a leadership vacuum.
Still, Iran’s opaque succession process, controlled largely by the Assembly of Experts, complicates any clear pathway to power.
Iran Israel War Context and Its Impact on Succession
The recent 12-day conflict, involving precision strikes, cyber warfare, and military posturing, has escalated regional volatility.
It also provided an opening for political figures to realign public narratives and reassert influence. Larijani used the occasion to caution against military escalation while defending Iran’s broader regional objectives.
BBC Middle East reports suggest that the war has reshaped Iran’s internal discourse, particularly on leadership strategy and public communication.
Larijani’s appearance is being interpreted as a strategic signal to political elites and the Iranian public alike.
Future of Iran Leadership After Khamenei
While Ayatollah Khamenei remains Iran’s paramount authority, age and health concerns continue to fuel speculation about succession. Larijani’s background — straddling both security institutions and political offices — positions him as a plausible candidate.
However, the lack of transparency in the succession process means any transition would likely be negotiated behind closed doors.
As the conversation around post-Khamenei succession intensifies, Larijani’s measured tone and media visibility suggest a deliberate strategy to remain relevant — and potentially rise — in Iran’s unpredictable political hierarchy.
