Middle East Conflict: Is Khamenei Dead? Speculation Over Iran's Supreme Leader As Israel, US Launch Airstrikes

Tel Aviv: The US and Israel have launched a massive military offensive against Iran, sparking unprecedented tensions across the region. The most significant and sensitive aspect of this operation is reported to have directly targeted the office of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The situation has become even more serious after reports emerged that his official office in the center of the capital, Tehran, was attacked.

What happened to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei?

Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei is reportedly not in Tehran and was evacuated to safe locations before the US-Israeli attack. Loud explosions were heard in several major cities, including Tehran. In the initial phase, Iranian military units and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps bases were targeted. According to a Channel 12 report, the attacks in Iran targeted the homes of ministers and military chiefs, Defense and Intelligence Ministry bases, and presidential facilities.

Soon after, news emerged that the scope of the attacks had expanded, hitting the Supreme Leader's office complex as well. This move is considered extremely important from both symbolic and strategic perspectives, as the Supreme Leader's office is the center of power in Iran. The Presidential Palace and the President's residence were also reportedly targeted in the attack, but they are reported safe.

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The U.S. participated in the (Iran) attack and was also carrying out… pic.twitter.com/tzfR1WnDhO

— ANI (@ANI) February 28, 2026

Which locations did US and Israeli strikes hit?

It is reported that the attacks were not limited to one location. In addition to Tehran, explosions were also reported in cities such as Tabriz, Qom, Karaj, Khorramabad, Kermanshah, and Ilam. Iranian media confirmed that a heavy deployment of security forces was made around the Supreme Leader's office in the capital's downtown area. However, detailed damage information has not been officially released.

Israel has described the attack as a pre-planned and coordinated operation. US officials have also indicated that the attack was carried out from both air and sea. Although full details of the targets have not been publicly shared, various reports suggest the Supreme Leader's office, military bases, and high-ranking commanders were targeted.

ISRAEL IS STRIKING IRAN. pic.twitter.com/mkBQBScoVw

— Hananya Naftali (@HananyaNaftali) February 28, 2026

What has Iran told Israel?

Following the attacks, Iran temporarily closed its airspace. Security agencies across the country have been put on high alert. Iranian officials have warned that the attack will be met with a "crushing" response. The news of the Supreme Leader's office being targeted has brought the conflict to a new and extremely sensitive juncture. Analysts believe this is not just a military action, but also a direct political and symbolic message. The entire world is currently focused on Tehran, where a major retaliatory action could be announced at any moment.