Iran latest: Supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei killed in strikes, Israeli official claims
Iran Conflict Escalates: Israeli Strike Sparks Claims of Supreme Leader’s Death
The United States and Israel executed a joint operation, “Operation Epic Fury,” focusing on Iranian leadership. In response, Iran launched missile attacks against Israeli and American facilities in the region. An Israeli official asserted that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the supreme leader since 1989, had been killed in the assault, though Iran refuted the claim.
Conflicting Narratives
Israeli sources suggest Khamenei’s body was discovered, while Iranian officials insist he remains alive. A media representative linked to Khamenei’s office stated:
“I can tell you with confidence that the leader of the revolution is steadfast and firm in commanding the field.”
White House Involvement
A photograph from the White House shows Donald Trump overseeing the Iran operation, wearing a USA hat at his Mar-a-Lago estate. US correspondent Mark Stone noted the president’s presence as “remarkable,” comparing it to his absence during the Venezuela operation in January that captured Nicolas Maduro. Stone remarked:
“I can’t think of a time other than [during the US operation in Venezuela] when an American president has not been at the White House when something like this is launched.”
Israeli Defense Force Statement
An IDF spokesperson confirmed that “a number of the most senior leaders of Iran,” including the head of its Revolutionary Guards, were “targeted” and eliminated in the strikes. They emphasized:
“It is now proof that no one will enjoy impunity if they try and attack the people of Israel.”
The statement highlighted that around 500 targets in Iran, deemed a “existential threat” to Israel, were hit. The spokesperson added:
“Thank you to the people of Israel for their resilience and patience. We will continue together, but I would like to stress that your security, the people of Israel, is a priority for all of us.”
Iran’s Position and Foreign Minister’s Clarification
A unnamed Trump administration official claimed Iran was preparing a pre-emptive strike before the US-Israeli operation. They argued that delays would have led to greater casualties. The official noted Iran’s lack of seriousness in nuclear talks, as it refused to address ballistic missiles and proxy support.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated there was “growing evidence” Khamenei was killed in the attack. He cited targeting his compound in Tehran. However, Iran’s foreign ministry denied the report, with spokesman Esmail Baghaei asserting:
“They are all safe and sound.”
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi echoed this, stating:
“As far as I know, Khamenei and Masoud Pezeshkian, the president, were alive.”
Reactions and Implications
Our Middle East correspondent Adam Parsons observed that Khamenei’s absence from public view since the operation began has fueled speculation. He noted:
“There are growing signs that Khamenei is no longer around.”
If true, the death could signal a major shift in Iran’s political landscape, with Parsons suggesting:
“The consequences are hard to predict.”
Despite the claims, the situation remains unresolved as both sides continue to assert their positions.
