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U.S. and Israel Say Khamenei Killed in Joint Strikes, Iran Denies and Fires Missiles

Conflicting claims about Khamenei’s fate sharpen uncertainty over succession, raising the risk of wider conflict.

Overview

  • The U.S.-Israeli campaign dubbed Operation EPIC FURY hit leadership, air defenses and strategic sites across Iran, and satellite imagery showed heavy damage at Khamenei’s compound in Tehran.
  • Israeli and U.S. officials say Khamenei was killed and his body recovered, but Iranian authorities dispute the claim and no independent verification has emerged.
  • Iran launched waves of missiles and drones toward Israel and Gulf states hosting U.S. forces; the Pentagon reported successful defenses with no U.S. casualties.
  • President Trump publicly asserted Khamenei’s death, urged Iranians to “take back their country,” and said bombing would continue, while Netanyahu cited growing signs the leader is “no longer around.”
  • Iranian state outlets reported significant civilian deaths, including an alleged strike on a girls’ school in Minab, reports that remain unverified as analysts warn succession uncertainty could boost IRGC influence.