Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Reportedly Killed in Strikes, Trump Claims
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, was reportedly killed Saturday in strikes carried out by the United States and Israel, according to an announcement by former U.S. President Donald Trump. The claim, made via a post on Trump’s Truth Social account, comes amid escalating tensions and retaliatory attacks between Iran, Israel, and U.S. forces in the region.
Trump described Khamenei as “one of the most evil people in history” and stated the Iranian leader “could not avoid” U.S. and Israeli intelligence systems. He further asserted that other Iranian leaders were also killed in the operation.
While Trump’s claims have not been independently verified, they coincide with reports of a joint U.S.-Israeli operation targeting Iranian military officials. Iranian state media initially reported that Khamenei was “steadfast and firm in commanding the field” just hours before Trump’s announcement, but has yet to issue a statement confirming or denying his death.
Khamenei’s death would mark the end of his 36-year rule over the Islamic Republic, creating a significant power vacuum. Potential successors include Ali Larijani, Iran’s top national security official, and members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), according to assessments by the CIA. Mojtaba Khamenei, one of the supreme leader’s sons, has also been identified as a possible successor, and reports indicate he survived a recent Israeli targeting attempt. Defense Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and IRGC commander Mohammed Pakpour were also reportedly killed in the strikes.
The unfolding situation has prompted concerns about further escalation in the Middle East. Trump stated that the “heavy and pinpoint bombing” would continue “until our objective of PEACE THROUGHOUT THE MIDDLE EAST AND, INDEED, THE WORLD!” is achieved.
Iran has already responded to the strikes with attacks on Israel and U.S. military bases throughout the region. Trump suggested that elements within the Iranian military and security forces are seeking immunity, indicating a potential fracturing within the regime.
The international community is watching closely as the conflict unfolds, with many questioning how long the fighting will last and what the long-term implications will be for regional stability. The situation remains fluid and is developing rapidly.
