By Adesakin Adefemi
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is reportedly dead after a series of air strikes carried out by the US and Israel, according to US President Donald Trump.
Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to announce the news, calling Khamenei “one of the most evil people in History”.
The Israeli government has also hinted at Khamenei’s demise, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating there are “many signs” that the Iranian leader is no longer alive. However, Iran’s government has not officially confirmed Khamenei’s death, with state media reporting that he is “steadfast and firm in commanding the field”.
The air strikes, dubbed Operation Epic Fury, targeted key government and military sites in Tehran, including Khamenei’s compound. The US and Israel have been conducting joint operations against Iran, citing threats to regional stability and global security.
Khamenei, 86, had been Iran’s Supreme Leader since 1989, following the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. His leadership style was often described as cautious but firm, relying heavily on institutions such as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to maintain control.
The reported death of Khamenei has sparked celebrations in some parts of Tehran, with citizens defying lockdown orders to mark the occasion. However, the situation remains volatile, with Iran vowing to retaliate against any further attacks.
The international community is on high alert, with the US and its allies warning of potential escalation in the region. The European Union has called an emergency security meeting to discuss the situation.
Trump has framed the operation as a success, stating that the US has “inflicted tremendous damage” on Iran’s military capabilities. He has also urged Iranians to take back their country, saying the reported death of Khamenei presents an opportunity for change.
The situation is being closely monitored, with further updates expected as more information becomes available.
