Reports are circulating that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei may have been killed following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated there are “growing signs” of Khamenei’s demise, Iranian officials have vehemently denied these claims, asserting that both Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian are “safe and sound.” The situation remains volatile, with ongoing retaliatory actions and international concern.
Following the US and Israeli strikes, Iran has launched retaliatory attacks across the Middle East. Reports indicate strikes in Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, and Kuwait, targeting areas with US military presence or allied nations. Explosions have been reported across Iran, and Israel’s air force continues operations within the country. The Red Crescent reports over 200 fatalities across Iran.
Former US President Donald Trump stated that “major combat operations” were underway and encouraged Iranians to “take over” their government, suggesting the US operation could be prolonged or concluded swiftly. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed British planes are active in the Middle East as part of coordinated defensive operations. The EU foreign ministers are scheduled to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the escalating situation.
Despite Israeli claims, including unconfirmed reports citing senior Israeli officials that Khamenei’s body has been found, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei has stated that “the enemy has resorted to psychological warfare.” He urged vigilance regarding such claims. The head of public relations at Khamenei’s office also dismissed the reports as psychological warfare.
Reports indicate significant damage to Khamenei’s compound in Tehran. The Iranian Red Crescent has reported over 200 deaths and 747 injuries across Iran, with 24 out of 31 provinces affected. There are also reports of casualties from Iranian strikes in other countries, including injuries in Dubai and a civilian death in Abu Dhabi.