Iran to bury security Chief as missile strikes escalate Middle East conflict

Iran is set to hold a state funeral on Wednesday for its slain security chief, Ali Larijani, amid rising tensions following a wave of retaliatory missile strikes against Israel.

Larijani was killed in an air strike, prompting Iran to launch missiles that struck areas near Tel Aviv, leaving at least two people dead. The escalation also saw Gulf nations intercept rockets and drones targeting strategic locations, including United States military bases.

Funeral rites for Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani, head of the Basij paramilitary force, are scheduled to take place in Tehran. Their deaths mark a major blow to Iran’s leadership structure, coming shortly after the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which triggered a broader regional conflict.

Iranian military officials have vowed a decisive response, warning that retaliation will intensify. The Revolutionary Guards described the killings as a catalyst for a “national awakening” and pledged further strikes.

The conflict has already begun to impact global markets, with oil prices nearing $100 per barrel as tensions threaten the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global crude supply. Iran’s foreign minister warned that the economic consequences of the war are only beginning to unfold.

Meanwhile, the United States has escalated its involvement, deploying heavy munitions against Iranian missile positions near the Gulf to secure shipping routes. Washington has also expressed frustration over limited support from allies in safeguarding oil tankers in the region.

The violence has spread beyond Iran and Israel, with Israeli strikes reported in Beirut and additional casualties recorded in Lebanon. Regional tensions have further intensified, with warnings of continued attacks and counterattacks across the Middle East.