Iran's supreme leader killed in strikes, Israeli sources say
Asia
By
AFP
| Feb 28, 2026
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that there are signs Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in an attack on his compound as part of US-Israeli strikes.
"This morning, in a powerful surprise strike, the compound of the tyrant Ali Khamenei was destroyed in the heart of Tehran," Netanyahu said in a televised statement.
"For more than three and a half decades, this cruel tyrant has spread terror across the world while oppressing his own people, while working tirelessly and without pause on a plan to destroy Israel," he added.
READ MORE
How Treasury is edging out 'mama mboga' for banks
Agoa renewal offers new chance to redefine Africa's place in global trade
Iran war hits kitchens as shilling slumps, forex reserves dwindle
China woos Kenyan producers with '800-million opportunity' as zero-tariff deal takes effect
Co-op bank shares set for further gains on strong profit growth, lower rates
Kenya slashes dollar debt to record low as Chinese yuan gains ground
Government plans stricter laws to clean up tea sector
Tourism earnings hit record Sh500 billion as arrivals near 8m
Kakamega youth, women eye avocado export cash after skills training
"That plan is no more -- and there are many signs that this tyrant is no longer alive," Netanyahu said.
Two Israeli television networks reported that Khamenei was killed in US-Israeli attacks on Iran, while there was no confirmation from Tehran.
"Ali Khamenei is dead," reported public broadcaster Kan on its X account.
Israel's Channel 12, citing a source, said: "Khamenei is dead."
During the televised address, Netanyahu also said that the "decisive" US-Israeli operation would last "as long as necessary".
"This morning we eliminated senior figures in the ayatollahs' regime -- commanders in the Revolutionary Guards and senior officials in the nuclear programme -- and we will continue," Netanyahu said.
"In the coming days, we will strike thousands of targets of the terror regime," he added.
President Donald Trump has called for regime change following the massive US and Israeli attack, which prompted an unprecedented wave of retaliatory strikes by Iran.
MOST READ
- Agoa renewal offers new chance to redefine Africa's place in global trade
OPINION
By Paul Russo
- Iran war hits kitchens as shilling slumps, forex reserves dwindle
BUSINESS
By Brian Ngugi
- China woos Kenyan producers with '800-million opportunity' as zero-tariff deal takes effect
BUSINESS
By Brian Ngugi