Iranian state media has reported that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, has been killed following extensive US and Israeli airstrikes across the country. The announcement came shortly after a coordinated military campaign targeted multiple locations inside Iran, significantly escalating regional tensions.
US President Donald Trump stated earlier that Ayatollah Khamenei was killed during the joint operation. He said the bombing campaign would continue and described the development as “the single greatest chance for the Iranian people to take back their country.” His remarks signaled Washington’s firm stance and suggested that further military action could follow.
According to two sources — one from the intelligence community and another from the military — nearly 40 senior Iranian officials were killed in the strikes. Both sources told CBS News that Ayatollah Khamenei was among those who died. Separately, Israeli authorities claimed their forces eliminated seven additional high-ranking officials as part of the same operation.
In retaliation, Iran reportedly launched counterattacks at various locations across the Middle East. Reports indicated apparent Iranian strikes in Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, and Kuwait — areas that either host American military bases or maintain close strategic ties with Washington. The developments have raised fears of a broader regional conflict.
The humanitarian impact of the escalation has been severe. Iran’s Red Crescent reported that more than 200 people have lost their lives nationwide. Officials also confirmed that at least 108 individuals were killed when US and Israeli strikes struck a girls’ school, further intensifying concerns over civilian casualties and the growing crisis.
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