Where is Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Amidst US-Israel Strikes on Iran?
Questions surrounding the whereabouts of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, intensified on Saturday, February 28, 2026, following a daylight strike on Tehran conducted by Israel and the United States. The attack targeted areas linked to Khamenei, prompting concerns about his safety and a temporary disruption of communications within the country.
Attacks on Tehran and Khamenei’s Compound
Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, stated that the strikes were a preemptive measure to eliminate threats to Israel as reported by Reuters. The offensive operation had been planned for months and coordinated with the United States. Iranian media reported explosions throughout Tehran, including near the presidential palace in Shemiran and specifically, near Khamenei’s compound according to Al Jazeera. Attacks also struck near Khamenei’s offices as reported by the Associated Press.
Khamenei Moved to a Secure Location
Amidst the escalating tensions, reports emerged indicating that Ayatollah Khamenei was not in Tehran at the time of the strikes. A Reuters source confirmed that the Supreme Leader had been transferred to a “secure location” as reported by Times Now News. His exact location remains undisclosed.
US Involvement and Trump’s Response
The United States acknowledged its involvement in the military action against Iran. US President Donald Trump accused Iran of attempting to rebuild its nuclear program and issued a warning to the Islamic Revolutionary Guards, demanding they lay down their weapons as reported by NDTV. Trump further stated the US would “raze their missile industry to the ground and wipe out their navy.”
Disrupted Communications
Following the attacks, cellular and internet connections in Iran were reportedly completely disrupted, hindering communication and information flow according to NDTV. The strikes occurred as the US and Iran had recently renewed negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program, with Israel pushing for the dismantling of nuclear infrastructure and restrictions on Iran’s missile program.
Who is Ayatollah Ali Khamenei?
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been Iran’s Supreme Leader since 1989, succeeding Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic as reported by Al Jazeera. As Supreme Leader, he holds significant political and religious authority within Iran.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.