Khamenei Killed: US and Israel Strike Iran, Trump Warns of Retaliation

Tehran, Iran – In a joint operation, the United States and Israel have reportedly killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. The strikes, which targeted military and regime targets within Iran, were confirmed by Iranian state media on Saturday, March 1, 2026. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning against Iranian retaliation, threatening unprecedented force.

Details of the Operation

The initial strikes focused on areas near the offices of Supreme Leader Khamenei, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating that all indications pointed to his death. NPR reports that top Iranian security officials, including the defense minister, commander of the Revolutionary Guard Corps, and the secretary of the Iranian Security Council, were too killed in the operation.

According to Al Jazeera, Iran has already launched retaliatory strikes on Israel, and U.S. Assets in several countries, including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Oman. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has pledged revenge, claiming attacks on 27 bases housing U.S. Troops.

Trump’s Response and Warning

Donald Trump, in a statement posted on Truth Social and detailed in an eight-minute video, asserted that the operation was designed to eliminate the threat of Iran developing a nuclear weapon. He warned Iran against any retaliatory actions, stating, “THEY BETTER NOT DO THAT, HOWEVER, BECAUSE IF THEY DO, WE WILL HIT THEM WITH A FORCE THAT HAS NEVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE!” Trump also claimed that Israel, with U.S. Support, was responsible for Khamenei’s death, attributing the success to U.S. Intelligence and tracking systems.

Trump further called on members of the Iranian military to lay down their weapons, offering immunity, and addressed the Iranian people, urging them to seize control of their government, stating, “the hour of your freedom is at hand.”

International Reaction and Regional Instability

The killing of Khamenei has triggered widespread reactions globally, with leaders expressing concerns about escalating conflict and regional instability. Several countries have closed their airspace as a precaution during the exchange of attacks. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is holding an emergency meeting to discuss the crisis, and the European Union is also convening emergency talks. Al Jazeera reports that the United Nations Security Council met on Saturday to address the situation.

Background on Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

According to Wikipedia, Ali Hosseini Khamenei served as the Supreme Leader of Iran from 1989 until February 28, 2026. He previously served as the 3rd President of Iran from 1981 to 1989. His death marks the finish of a 36-year period of leadership characterized by a staunch anti-American and anti-Israeli stance. An Interim Leadership Council has been established following his death.

Looking Ahead

The situation remains highly volatile, with the potential for further escalation. The international community is closely monitoring developments and urging restraint. The coming days and weeks will be critical in determining whether the region can avoid a wider conflict.