U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli officials claimed Saturday that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been killed in recent joint U.S.–Israeli strikes, while Iranian authorities swiftly denied the reports, calling them false.
Trump said Khamenei was among senior Iranian figures targeted in coordinated airstrikes, describing the operation as a major blow to Iran’s leadership. Israeli officials echoed the claim, saying the supreme leader had been eliminated.
However, Iran rejected the assertions. Semi-official Iranian media outlets reported that Khamenei remained alive and was “steadfast” in directing the country’s response. Iranian authorities accused Washington and Tel Aviv of spreading disinformation amid escalating hostilities.
There was no immediate independent confirmation of Khamenei’s status. International news agencies said they had been unable to verify either side’s claims due to restricted access and the rapidly developing security situation.
The conflicting statements come as tensions between Iran, Israel and the United States intensify following a series of strikes and counterstrikes across the region.
Khamenei, 86, has served as Iran’s supreme leader since 1989 and holds ultimate authority over the country’s political and military decisions.
The situation remained fluid, with global leaders urging restraint amid fears of broader regional escalation. (Newswire)