US and Israel Launch Strikes on Iran, Killing Supreme Leader Khamenei
A major military operation conducted by the United States and Israel has resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday. The strikes, described as the opening salvo in a regime change war, have triggered retaliatory attacks from Iran and raised fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East.
Confirmation of Khamenei’s Death
Donald Trump announced Khamenei’s death on his Truth Social platform, stating the Supreme Leader was “one of the most evil people in History.” Iranian state media subsequently confirmed Khamenei’s death, though details surrounding the circumstances were initially limited BBC News. The Iranian Supreme National Security Council issued a statement confirming the death, but did not specify the cause or potential successors BBC News.
Details of the US-Israeli Operation
The military campaign began on Saturday morning with a barrage of missiles and airstrikes targeting locations across Iran. Trump indicated the goal was regime change, encouraging members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to surrender and promising immunity The Guardian. Approximately 200 warplanes were involved in the initial attack The Independent. Reports indicate the strikes targeted military sites, including those housing ballistic missiles The Independent.
Casualties and Damage
Initial reports indicate significant casualties. At least 201 people were killed in the US-Israeli strikes, according to Iranian media The Independent. A strike on a girls’ primary school in southern Iran resulted in at least 108 deaths, primarily children The Independent. Trump also stated that Khamenei’s daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter were among those killed PBS NewsHour.
Iranian Retaliation and Regional Impact
Iran responded to the strikes with attacks on US and Israeli military bases across the Middle East. Cities, including Tehran, were targeted The Independent. Attacks also extended to Gulf states, with explosions reported in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, resulting in at least two deaths and multiple injuries The Independent. Airspace over the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait was temporarily closed The Independent.
US Assessment and Ongoing Operations
US Central Command reported no US casualties or significant damage to US facilities as of Saturday evening PBS NewsHour. However, Trump indicated that the strikes are expected to continue “uninterrupted throughout the week or, as long as necessary” The Guardian.
Political Reactions
The operation has drawn mixed reactions. Some US politicians have questioned the strategic endgame, with Representative Jim Himes calling it a “war of choice” and urging congressional authorization for military force The Independent.