Iranian state television has reported that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, died during coordinated airstrikes allegedly carried out by the United States and Israel in Tehran.
In a sombre announcement, a presenter on state TV confirmed his death and declared a 40-day period of national mourning.
Iranian outlets also claimed that Khamenei’s daughter and grandchild were among those killed in the attack.
US President Donald Trump described the operation as successful in a post on Truth Social, stating that the death marked “justice” for both Iranians and Americans.
US officials said the strikes targeted a heavily fortified bunker located within the Supreme Leader’s palace complex in Tehran, with satellite images reportedly showing significant destruction. Iranian reports said his body was recovered from the debris after precision strikes that began around 9 a.m. local time.
The Israel Defense Forces said the offensive also wiped out several top Iranian defence officials. Those reportedly killed include Defence Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and senior Revolutionary Guard commander Mohammad Pakpour.
Some unverified accounts suggest up to 40 high-ranking officials may have died in the assault.
Earlier, Iranian state media had dismissed initial reports of Khamenei’s death as “psychological warfare.” Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had also maintained that the Supreme Leader was alive but did not appear for a planned televised address.
