Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have successfully targeted and killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei along with dozens of senior regime officials. Speaking from the roof of the Kirya military headquarters in Tel Aviv, the Prime Minister stated that Israel is now striking the heart of the Iranian capital, Tehran. Netanyahu described the operation as a decisive move to ensure Israel's long-term security and future.
Claims Regarding the Death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
In his official statement, Prime Minister Netanyahu asserted that the military operation conducted on Saturday led to the elimination of the Iranian Supreme Leader and high-ranking officials of the regime, while he characterized the action as a strike against a repressive administration that has long threatened regional peace. According to Netanyahu, the operation was the culmination of a strategic goal he had pursued for 40 years, aimed at uprooting what he described as a regime of terror. The Prime Minister emphasized that the intelligence-led strikes were precise and targeted the core leadership of the Iranian state.
Intensification of IDF Strikes in Central Tehran
The Prime Minister confirmed that he has issued directives to the IDF to continue and intensify the campaign within Tehran. Following a high-level meeting with the Defense Minister, the IDF Chief of Staff, and the Director of Mossad, Netanyahu stated that the military pressure on the Iranian capital would increase in the coming days. The objective of these intensified strikes is to dismantle the military and command structures of the Iranian regime. Netanyahu noted that the IDF is operating with unprecedented force to achieve these strategic objectives.
Strategic Cooperation with the United States
Netanyahu highlighted the significant support received from the United States and specifically mentioned his cooperation with US President Donald Trump. He stated that the alliance between the two nations and their respective militaries has enabled Israel to carry out operations that were previously considered unattainable. This coalition of forces, according to the Prime Minister, has been instrumental in providing the necessary support to conduct direct strikes against the Iranian leadership. He reiterated that this partnership is vital for maintaining regional stability and Israeli sovereignty.
Domestic Impact and Address to Israeli Citizens
Despite the military advancements claimed, Netanyahu acknowledged the heavy toll the conflict has taken on Israeli civilians. He expressed his condolences to the families of those lost in Tel Aviv and Beit Shemesh, describing the current period as deeply painful for the nation. The Prime Minister wished a speedy recovery to the injured and assured the public that the government is utilizing all available resources to protect the citizenry. He framed the ongoing military campaign as an essential sacrifice for the ultimate safety of the State of Israel.
Security Directives and Future Military Outlook
The Prime Minister concluded by stating that the military campaign is far from over and will proceed according to the established plans. He noted that the elimination of the top leadership has created a vacuum that the IDF intends to exploit by targeting strategic infrastructure. Netanyahu maintained that the instructions given to the military leadership are clear: to continue the offensive until the regime's capabilities are fully neutralized, while the Israeli government remains in constant coordination with its intelligence agencies to monitor the evolving situation in Tehran and across the region.