Iran’s Supreme Leader Presumed Dead After US-Israel Operation

Tehran, Iran – February 28, 2026 – Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader since 1989, is presumed dead following a joint military operation by the United States and Israel on Saturday, according to multiple Israeli official sources and a senior U.S. Intelligence official [CBS News]. The operation targeted Khamenei and other high-ranking Iranian officials.

Netanyahu Confirms Growing Signs of Khamenei’s Death

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated there are “growing signs” that Khamenei is “gone” after the mission [AP News]. While Iranian state media and the Foreign Ministry have yet to confirm Khamenei’s death, reports indicate celebrations are occurring in the streets of Tehran [CBS News].

Key Figures Targeted in the Operation

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that seven Iranian officials and commanders were killed during the strikes, including Ali Shamkhani, an advisor to Khamenei [CBS News]. An Israeli broadcaster reported that Netanyahu was shown a photograph of Khamenei’s body.

US Response and Calls for Regime Change

President Donald Trump has called on the Iranian public to “take over” their government [AP News], confirming U.S. Involvement in the operation. Trump as well directed the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to lay down their arms [The Jerusalem Post].

Impact and Uncertainty

Ayatollah Khamenei, 86, held supreme authority over all branches of the Iranian government and military since succeeding Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989. His death leaves a significant power vacuum, and the question of succession remains unclear [CBS News]. A satellite image shows significant damage to Khamenei’s compound in Tehran following the strikes [CBS News].

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.