World

Trump Says Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei Is Dead After U.S.–Israeli Strikes

President Donald Trump declared that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed during predawn U.S.–Israeli strikes on Iran, calling him “one of the most evil people in history.” The announcement came as explosions and heavy smoke were reported across several Iranian cities, escalating tensions in the region.

According to initial briefings, the coordinated attack targeted political, military, and intelligence sites across Iran. Israeli officials said they aimed at senior leaders, while the U.S. focused on Iran’s ballistic missile and nuclear infrastructure.

Key Developments

Khamenei Reported Dead

Trump announced that Khamenei was killed during the assault. U.S. and Israeli officials told NBC News they believe the supreme leader is “almost certainly dead.” Iran has not yet confirmed his death.

Major Joint Operation

The U.S. launched “major combat operations” alongside Israel. Hundreds of sites were targeted, including air defense systems, missile launchers, and Revolutionary Guard facilities.

Mass Casualties in Iran

The Iranian Red Crescent reported more than 200 deaths and around 700 injured across 24 provinces following the attacks.

Iran Retaliates

Iran launched missiles and drones at Israel and U.S. bases in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, and Jordan. Many projectiles were intercepted, but some caused injuries and structural damage.

Global Reaction

• China & Russia condemned the U.S.–Israeli attack as “aggression.”

• France, the U.K., and Germany urged Iran to stop retaliatory strikes.

• UN Secretary-General called for immediate de-escalation.

Chaos in Tehran

Satellite images and on-the-ground reporting show:

• Massive traffic jams

• Panic buying in supermarkets

• Long gas lines

• Parents pulling children from schools

Protests Worldwide

Demonstrations erupted in New York’s Times Square, Washington D.C., and cities across Europe, with protestors calling for an end to military escalation.

Trump Calls for Iranians to “Take Over Your Government”

Trump urged citizens of Iran to rise up, declaring, “The hour of your freedom is at hand.” He said strikes would continue “as long as necessary.”

Iran’s Foreign Minister Responds

In an interview, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi:

• Denied Khamenei’s death

• Called regime change “mission impossible”

• Warned that all U.S. and Israeli bases are now legitimate targets

Araghchi said Iran was willing to talk — only after strikes stop.

Flights Disrupted Across the Middle East

Airspace closures in Israel, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, and Syria caused mass cancellations and diversions affecting tens of thousands of passengers.