IRAN
TEHRAN – March 1, 2026 — Iranian state media has finally confirmed that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the 86-year-old Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, was killed in a precision joint airstrike conducted by the United States and Israel.
According to IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting), Khamenei was targeted early Saturday morning, February 28, while performing his "daily duties" at his office within the Beit Rahbari complex in northern Tehran. A statement from the Supreme National Security Council, read by state TV anchors, revealed that although the Leader was in a reinforced underground bunker at the time, Israeli bunker-buster missiles—aided by U.S. satellite intelligence—penetrated over 30 meters deep, triggering a massive explosion.
The Anatomy of the Strike
The assault reportedly commenced around 3:45 AM Tehran time. Israeli sources informed international news outlets that F-35 fighter jets, in full coordination with the Pentagon, deployed GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators (MOP) designed to neutralize ultra-fortified bunkers.
The blasts were so powerful that large sections of the leadership compound were reduced to rubble. Emergency teams recovered the bodies of Khamenei and several close family members—including one of his daughters, his son-in-law, and a grandchild—from the debris several hours later.
Global Reactions
U.S. President Donald Trump took to Truth Social on Saturday morning, stating:
"Khamenei, one of the most evil figures in history, is dead. He could not hide from the advanced intelligence and tracking systems of the U.S. and Israel. This is justice for the people of Iran and everyone killed or maimed by him and his bloodthirsty gang."
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told a press conference: "Our operation was carried out with surgical precision. Khamenei is no more."
Chaos and Mourning
Iran has declared 40 days of public mourning and a 7-day national shutdown. Despite the official mourning, reports of sporadic protests have emerged from the streets of Tehran, with some citizens reportedly chanting "Death to Khamenei" and "Death to the Dictator."
The strike is part of a broader military campaign dubbed "Operation Epic Wrath," which has targeted dozens of high-ranking Iranian military and nuclear officials. The UN Security Council has called for an emergency session, urging all parties to exercise "maximum restraint."