Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was killed early Saturday morning during coordinated US–Israeli airstrikes on Tehran, Iranian state media has confirmed.
Based on the official reports from Tehran, Khamenei was targeted while inside his office complex. The strikes form part of what US officials have described as a “large-scale strategic operation” aimed at crippling Iran’s military command structure and missile capabilities.
US President Donald Trump issued a strongly worded statement following confirmation of Khamenei’s death.
“Ali Khamenei was one of the most evil people in History,” Trump said. “For decades, he sponsored terror, destabilized the Middle East, and oppressed his own people. Today marks the end of a brutal chapter.”
He also addressed the Iranian public directly:
“To the people of Iran — this is your moment. Take back your Country. Build a future of freedom, prosperity, and peace.”
The White House has not yet provided operational details about the strike but described it as a “joint defensive action” conducted in coordination with Israel.
Iran’s Red Crescent reports that more than 200 people have been killed nationwide in the ongoing wave of strikes. Iranian officials say at least 108 people were killed when US and Israeli missiles struck a girls’ school, though independent verification of those figures has not yet been possible.
Hospitals in several major cities are reportedly overwhelmed as emergency crews continue search-and-rescue operations.
Scenes across Iran remain deeply divided. In parts of Tehran, Shiraz, and other cities, videos circulating on social media appear to show crowds celebrating in the streets. One local speaking to BBC Persian said Khamenei’s death means “the world has become a better place now.”
At the same time, state television has broadcast images of mourning gatherings, with supporters of the late Supreme Leader calling his death a “martyrdom” and vowing resistance.
Khamenei, who had served as Iran’s Supreme Leader since 1989, was the country’s highest political and religious authority. His death creates immediate uncertainty over Iran’s leadership succession and raises fears of further escalation in the region.
Regional governments have begun emergency consultations, while global markets reacted sharply to the news.
The situation remains fluid as Iran’s leadership prepares an official response and questions grow over the potential for broader conflict in the Middle East.
