President Donald Trump has declared that Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is dead after the United States and Israel conducted a joint military operation targeting his compound on Saturday. In a statement, Trump described Khamenei as "one of the most evil people in history" and framed the action as justice for victims worldwide.
Trump's Statement on the Operation
Trump asserted that Khamenei could not evade advanced US intelligence and tracking systems, which were coordinated closely with Israel. He claimed this event presents a pivotal opportunity for the Iranian people to reclaim their nation, noting reports that many Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and security forces are seeking immunity and no longer wish to fight.
Continued Military Actions
The US president emphasized that heavy and precise bombing will persist uninterrupted throughout the week or as long as necessary to achieve the objective of "peace throughout the Middle East and, indeed, the world." This underscores the ongoing military strategy in the region following the strikes.
Iran's Response and Minimal Damage
In retaliation, Iran launched revenge strikes after the joint operation. However, US forces reported no casualties and only "minimal" damage that did not impact operations at military sites. This indicates a controlled escalation in the conflict, with US assets remaining largely unaffected.
Regional and Global Implications
The death of Khamenei, a key figure in Iranian politics, could significantly alter the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. Trump's announcement highlights the deep-seated tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran, with potential ramifications for global stability and diplomatic relations.
