Khamenei Killed in Massive US-Israel Iran Strike

Tehran: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has been killed following large-scale joint airstrikes carried out by the United States and Israel, according to Iranian state media.

State broadcaster IRIB reported on Sunday morning that the 86-year-old leader had “reached martyrdom.” Media reports said Khamenei was killed early Saturday at his office in Tehran after it was targeted during coordinated US-Israeli strikes.

The attacks are being described as one of the most significant military operations against Iran in decades. Reportedly, the strikes targeted key military and government sites across Tehran, including Khamenei’s compound.

Trump Confirms Operation

US President Donald Trump confirmed the operation in a post on X, calling Khamenei’s death “the single greatest chance for the Iranian people to take back their Country.”

Trump said the US worked closely with Israel in tracking Khamenei’s movements using intelligence and surveillance systems. He added that the operation aimed to eliminate what he described as a long-standing nuclear and security threat from Iran.

In a separate post on Truth Social, Trump warned that bombing operations would continue “as long as necessary” to achieve what he called peace in the Middle East.

However, shortly after Trump’s announcement, a message appeared on Khamenei’s official X account in Persian, creating confusion about the confirmation.

Netanyahu Reacts

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Khamenei’s compound had been destroyed. Israeli media reported that officials were shown images of the site after the strike.

Other Senior Leaders Reportedly Killed

According to sources quoted by Reuters, several top Iranian officials were also killed in the strikes. These include:

• Iranian Defence Minister Amir Nasirzadeh

• Revolutionary Guards commander Mohammed Pakpour

• Ali Shamkhani, senior adviser to the Supreme Leader

Iranian media also reported casualties among members of Khamenei’s family.

Israel’s military stated that five additional senior commanders were confirmed dead.

Iran Responds

Iran has called the strikes illegal and unprovoked. In retaliation, Iran launched missile attacks targeting Israel and several other countries in the region, including Gulf states hosting US military bases.

The situation has significantly increased tensions across the Middle East, raising fears of a wider and prolonged conflict.

About Ali Khamenei

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had ruled Iran since 1989 after the death of Ruhollah Khomeini, founder of the Islamic Republic.

As Supreme Leader, he held ultimate authority over Iran’s government, armed forces, and judiciary. Over the years, he maintained a strong anti-West stance and opposed US influence in the region.

Political analysts described Khamenei as one of the most powerful figures in Iran’s modern history. His death leaves uncertainty over Iran’s leadership, as no clear successor had been officially designated.

What Happens Next?

The killing of Iran’s top leader could reshape the country’s political future and escalate military tensions in the region. With Iran vowing retaliation, global leaders are closely monitoring developments.