Israeli officials have claimed that Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed during an Israeli strike, which was part of a joint military operation with the United States named “Operation Epic Fury.” Sources familiar with the situation, including independent individuals and Axios, indicated that an Iranian leader had been eliminated during a nighttime assault on Tehran.
Khamenei, who was 86 years old at the time of his reported death, had ruled Iran for 35 years, ranking him among the longest-serving authoritarian figures globally.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu noted there were “increasing signs” that Khamenei was “gone.” However, Esmail Baghaei, the spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, maintained that he was “safe and sound.”
Former President Donald Trump urged Iranians, who have been protesting against their government in all 31 provinces since late last year, to “take over” and “seize control,” suggesting their situation might change once the bombing ceases. Still, authorities have cautioned that military clashes could extend through the weekend.
Reports indicated that some residents in Tehran began celebrating Khamenei’s death, as noted by the BBC, despite the mixed signals about his status.
Israeli authorities report that Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in an airstrike. We await confirmation from President Trump.
— One America News (@OANN) February 28, 2026
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