Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei Reportedly Killed in Joint U.S.-Israeli Strikes
Reports indicate that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been killed during coordinated military strikes by the United States and Israel, though Iranian officials have not confirmed his death.
On February 28, 2026, reports emerged that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed during a series of coordinated military strikes conducted by the United States and Israel. President Donald Trump announced on social media that Khamenei, whom he described as "one of the most evil people in history," was dead.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated there were "many signs that this tyrant is no longer alive," urging the Iranian populace to "join forces, to overthrow the regime and to secure your future."
The joint military operation, reportedly named "Operation Lion's Roar," targeted key Iranian military and governmental sites, including areas near Khamenei's residence in Tehran. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed to have struck 500 military targets using approximately 200 fighter jets, marking the largest combat sortie in its history.
In response, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on Israel and U.S. bases across the Middle East, resulting in casualties and damage in regions including Israel and the United Arab Emirates. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Khamenei was alive "as far as I know," and described the attacks as "unprovoked, illegal and absolutely illegitimate."
The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the U.S.-Israeli airstrikes, warning of the risk of a broader conflict and urging a return to diplomatic negotiations. He stated that the military actions violated international law and the U.N. Charter.
The situation remains fluid, with international leaders calling for restraint and a de-escalation of hostilities.