President Donald Trump said on Saturday that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was killed in joint military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel, following weeks of diplomatic tension and failed talks between Washington and Tehran.
U.S. and Iranian officials had engaged in multiple rounds of contacts in recent weeks focused on regional security, Iran’s military activities and U.S. sanctions. The negotiations did not produce an agreement. U.S. officials cited growing concern over Iran’s actions in the Middle East, while Iranian leaders criticized continued American pressure and sanctions.
After the breakdown in diplomacy, Israeli forces and U.S. military assets conducted coordinated strikes on multiple locations linked to Iran. U.S. officials did not immediately disclose specific targets, timing details or the types of weapons used.
In a public statement, Trump said the joint operation had “successfully eliminated” Khamenei and described the action as part of a broader effort to confront Iran’s leadership. He stated that his objective was to bring an end to what he characterized as the current regime in Tehran.
The White House did not immediately release supporting intelligence or visual evidence. U.S. defense officials did not independently confirm Khamenei’s reported death at the time of Trump’s remarks. Iranian state media did not issue an immediate detailed response, and there was no public confirmation from senior Iranian officials regarding the Supreme Leader’s status.
Israel, a longstanding U.S. ally, has repeatedly raised concerns about Iran’s regional alliances, missile development and nuclear activities. The joint operation aligned with Israel’s previously stated security warnings regarding Iran’s military reach.
Governments across the Middle East moved to heightened alert following the announcement, preparing for potential retaliation or unrest. Some countries reviewed airspace controls, border security and protections for critical infrastructure.
Foreign ministries in Europe and Asia assessed the implications for global security and energy markets, while diplomats discussed the risk of escalation. Humanitarian organizations monitored early reports of damage and casualties, though confirmed figures were not immediately available.
