Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei…Photo /courtesy
DUBAI (IP) — Conflicting claims emerged on Saturday over the fate of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, with Israeli and U.S. officials suggesting he may have been killed in sweeping airstrikes, while Iranian authorities denied the reports and insisted he remains alive.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there were “growing signs” that Khamenei was killed when his compound in Tehran was struck during a broader military operation targeting Iran’s leadership and strategic facilities.
He did not provide immediate evidence to support the claim.
U.S. President Donald Trump said he believed the reports were accurate, adding that Iran’s senior leadership had been severely weakened.
The White House did not release independent confirmation.
Iran swiftly rejected the assertions. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Khamenei was alive and dismissed what he described as “psychological warfare.”
Iranian state media carried no announcement indicating the death of the 86-year-old cleric.
Khamenei has led the Islamic Republic since 1989, succeeding Ruhollah Khomeini.
As supreme leader, he holds ultimate authority over Iran’s armed forces, judiciary and key state institutions.
With no official confirmation from Tehran, uncertainty over Khamenei’s status has heightened tensions across the region as military exchanges continue.



