Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei Reportedly Killed in US-Israel Joint Military Strike
In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was reportedly killed in a massive joint military operation conducted by the United States and Israel on Saturday, February 28, 2026. According to Israel's ambassador to Washington, who informed U.S. officials, the strike targeted Iran as a pre-emptive action against Tehran's nuclear weapons development program.
Details of the Attack and Confirmation
The initial strikes appeared to focus on areas around the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, though it was not immediately clear whether the 86-year-old leader was present at the time. Israeli intelligence later confirmed to Axios, as reported by CNN, that Khamenei is dead and his body was recovered from his destroyed compound. This confirmation came several hours after the attack, adding to the uncertainty and chaos following the assault.
Retaliation and Regional Impact
The attack prompted swift retaliation from Iran, with missiles reported to have targeted Israel and other countries across the Middle East. This development has heightened fears of a broader regional conflict, as both sides describe their actions in stark terms. The U.S. and Israel framed the strike as a necessary pre-emptive measure to counter Iran's nuclear ambitions, while Iran's response underscores its intent to defend its sovereignty and leadership.
Khamenei's Legacy and Power
Ali Khamenei has ruled Iran since 1989, holding ultimate power and shaping the Islamic Republic in the decades following the 1979 revolution. His death marks a pivotal moment in Iranian history, potentially destabilizing the country's political and religious structures. As supreme leader, Khamenei wielded significant influence over Iran's domestic and foreign policies, including its nuclear program and regional proxy activities.
The joint operation highlights the deepening cooperation between the U.S. and Israel in addressing perceived threats from Iran, but it also raises critical questions about the future of Middle Eastern stability. With Khamenei's death unconfirmed for hours, the situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as both nations and their allies assess the fallout from this unprecedented military action.
