Israel claims it has assassinated Ayatollah Khamenei

Multiple Israeli media sources, including Channel 12 and The Times of Israel, cite unnamed Israeli officials suggesting there are 'growing indications' or assessments that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was likely killed in joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026. These reports emphasize the lack of official confirmation and rely on unnamed sources, indicating a degree of uncertainty.

On the other hand, Iranian government officials, notably the Iranian foreign minister, have publicly denied these claims, stating that Khamenei is alive 'as far as I know. ' This direct contradiction between Israeli media speculation and Iranian official statements leaves the claim unverified.

Additionally, no independent or third-party confirmation has emerged to substantiate the assassination claim. The situation remains fluid with ongoing military actions and information warfare likely influencing reports. Given the high-profile nature of Khamenei's position and the geopolitical implications, such a significant event would typically be confirmed by multiple reliable sources or official announcements, which are currently absent.