Iranian media outlets across the political spectrum are circulating a historical anecdote about prominent politician Ali Larijani, notably referring to him as a "martyr" following recent strikes on Tehran.
Against the backdrop of a massive, multi-front conflict involving widespread Israeli and American strikes on Iranian territory, Iranian media channels across the political spectrum are circulating a historical anecdote from prominent politician Ali Larijani. Notably, both reformist-aligned and hardline military outlets are now officially referring to Larijani using the title "Martyr."
Pezeshkian Supporters, a channel aligned with Iran's reformist administration, shared a brief historical reflection regarding Larijani's diplomatic past. The post highlighted, "The narrative of Martyr Ali Larijani from the meeting with Henry Kissinger: Everyone was divided except two countries; Iran and Egypt." The message gathered over 10,000 views upon publication on March 18.This exact sentiment and framing was simultaneously broadcast by the hardline, military-affiliated IRGC News Channel. Mirroring the reformist account, the Revolutionary Guards outlet posted, "The narrative of Martyr Ali Larijani from his meeting with Henry Kissinger: He divided all countries except Iran and Egypt."
The cross-factional commemoration emerges just two days after the Israel Defense Forces and US CENTCOM launched Operation "Epic Wrath." The extensive bombardments have heavily targeted over 200 military sites, including air defense systems and fuel depots in the capital city of Tehran.
The use of the term 'Martyr' (شهید) for Ali Larijani in both sources indicates he was recently killed, which aligns with the intense background context of the March 16 bombings in Tehran. Both sources used virtually identical text, suggesting a coordinated messaging effort or the repetition of a shared state-approved narrative.