Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Reportedly Killed in US‑Israel ‘Operation Epic Fury’

Iran’s state media early Sunday confirmed that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been killed, after a massive joint military strike by the United States and Israel as part of a campaign known as Operation Epic Fury.

According to Iranian state broadcasters, the 86‑year‑old leader was killed while carrying out his official duties at his Tehran office during the attack.  Iran’s government has declared a 40‑day national mourning period following the announcement of his death. 

Satellite imagery and analysis by international outlets show large‑scale damage to Khamenei’s leadership compound in Tehran, the site where the strike reportedly hit. 

Former U.S. President Donald Trump posted on social media that Khamenei, whom he described as one of “history’s most evil figures,” has died and framed his death as “justice” for those affected by the Iranian regime’s policies. Trump also claimed that Iranian security forces were abandoning the fight and urged them to seek immunity. 

The joint US‑Israeli operation targeted numerous strategic sites across Iran, including military facilities and leadership centers. Israeli officials have also stated they have “many signs” that Khamenei is dead. 

In addition to Khamenei’s death, Iranian state media reported that members of his family — including his daughter, son‑in‑law and granddaughter — were also killed in the strikes, though detailed information on the circumstances has not been released. 

The development marks a major escalation in Middle Eastern tensions, with Iran having already launched retaliatory missile strikes against U.S. and allied positions in the region. International reactions have varied, with some countries condemning the attacks as violations of international law.