In a devastating attack on the opening day of ongoing strikes targeting Iran’s presidential complex, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed, authorities confirmed today. The strike occurred during the 10th day of Ramadan while the Supreme Leader was at his residence with family members, including his son Mojtaba Khamenei, his wife, and other relatives.
Iranian officials revealed that Mojtaba Khamenei was injured in the attack. The Iranian ambassador to Cyprus, Alireza Salarian, told The Guardian that the new Supreme Leader sustained injuries to his legs, hand, and arm and is currently hospitalized. Salarian emphasized that Mojtaba has not appeared publicly or addressed supporters, citing his health condition as the reason.
The strike targeted the Khamenei family’s residence near the presidential office in Tehran, resulting in the deaths of the Supreme Leader, his wife, daughter, son-in-law, and her 14-month-old infant. Top military commanders who were present at the time also perished in the attack.
Western intelligence sources suggest that Mojtaba Khamenei is avoiding public appearances out of concern for his safety amid fears of targeted assassination attempts, particularly from the United States and Israel.
In related international reactions, former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed concern over Iran’s new leadership. In an interview with Fox News, Trump stated that Mojtaba Khamenei “will not be able to live in peace” and criticized Iran’s selection process, hinting at U.S. ambitions to influence Iran’s leadership, similar to past interventions in other countries.
The situation remains tense as Iran faces ongoing military strikes and political upheaval. The Iranian government has yet to issue a detailed statement regarding the attack or its future plans.
