Around 40 senior Iranian officials were killed in the latest wave of strikes by the United States and Israel jointly, an intelligence source and a military source told CBS News. There were reports of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s death after Trump’s claim on social media; however, Iran has denied all claims.
Iranian authorities have rejected reports of Khamenei’s death as “psychological warfare,” while offering no detailed public update on his condition. Earlier, Israel said it had killed seven other high-ranking officials during the attacks.
Explosions were first reported shortly after Saturday morning in Tehran, with images showing smoke rising over central areas, including Jomhouri Square and Hassan Abad Square. Blasts were also reported in Karaj, Isfahan, Qom and Kermanshah, suggesting a coordinated campaign targeting multiple locations.
Verified footage showed explosions occurring within close proximity of the Leadership House, the compound associated with Khamenei. Satellite imagery later indicated heavy damage to buildings in the area.
In a televised address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed the compound had been destroyed, adding that there were “many signs” the Iranian leader was no longer alive.
US President Donald Trump also asserted on social media that Khamenei had been killed, describing the moment as a turning point for Iran. Iranian officials, however, insist the reports are unverified and politically motivated, leaving the situation clouded in uncertainty.
