Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dies after Israeli strike in Tehran

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has died following an Israeli airstrike in downtown Tehran, according to reports. Fox News cited Israeli officials confirming that Khamenei’s compound and offices were destroyed early Saturday.

Behnam Ben Taleblu, senior director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ Iran program, described Khamenei as the Middle East’s longest-serving autocrat, highlighting his rideological commitment and calculated approach to power.

The strike marks a major escalation in regional tensions, with the situation in Tehran and across Iran remaining volatile as international observers monitor developments.