Israeli media reported Saturday that intelligence officials assess Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was likely killed in airstrikes earlier in the day. The report came from Channel 12, citing unnamed sources.
The assessment is based on intelligence information. Satellite images showed heavy damage to what appears to be Khamenei’s compound in Tehran. The report said senior officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, were briefed.
Other outlets, including Ynet and Kan, echoed parts of the claim. They said multiple senior leaders were targeted.
The strikes reportedly also hit President Masoud Pezeshkian and commanders from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Confirmations are still pending.
There is no official confirmation from Israel. Iran denied the reports. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told NBC News that Khamenei is alive and most officials are safe.
Satellite images show major destruction, but there is no independent verification of Khamenei’s status. The situation remains tense as retaliation continues.