Iran latest: Supreme leader ‘safe and sound’, spokesman tells Sky – but Netanyahu claims there ‘signs’ he is dead
Iran Latest: Supreme Leader ‘Safe and Sound’, Spokesman Tells Sky – But Netanyahu Claims There ‘Signs’ He Is Dead
Following recent military actions, Iran has responded with missile strikes against Israeli and U.S. installations in the region. The conflict has escalated, with reports of attacks on military bases in Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE. The U.S. and Israel have initiated “Operation Epic Fury,” targeting key Iranian leadership. The situation is now unfolding with global implications.
The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump has engaged with leaders of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, as well as NATO’s Mark Rutte. This communication follows the strikes, which have prompted Iran to retaliate. The scope of the conflict is broadening, affecting multiple nations and drawing international attention.
Netanyahu’s Strong Stance on Regime Change
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the campaign against Iran is focused on regime transformation, not merely nuclear weapons. In a statement, he declared the military operation will continue “as long as it is needed” to achieve “true peace.” Netanyahu criticized the Iranian regime, stating it poses a “threat to the entire humankind” and should be dismantled.
“Such a murderous regime should not have nuclear weapons that can continue threatening the entire humankind,” Netanyahu said. “We would like to thank the brave Iranian people for being freed of those horrific ties with that regime.”
Netanyahu urged action, warning that “this moment will come” and people will be “demanded to go out on the streets in the masses” to support the effort. His remarks were delivered during a press conference, which is set to air live as updates continue.
Iran’s Response: Supreme Leader Unharmed
Iran’s foreign ministry reported that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei remains “safe and sound,” countering Netanyahu’s claims of “signs” he is “no longer” alive. The ministry also advised media to rely only on official sources, such as Tehran’s state broadcaster IRIB, for accurate information.
Earlier, there were rumors of a speech by Khamenei, but it did not materialize. The ministry’s clarification highlights ongoing tensions between Iran and its adversaries. Meanwhile, the U.S. Central Command confirmed that its forces successfully defended against Iranian missile and drone attacks, with no casualties reported.
“Following the initial wave of U.S. and partner strikes, CENTCOM forces successfully defended against hundreds of Iranian missile and drone attacks. There have been no reports of U.S. casualties or combat-related injuries,” the command stated.
France’s President Emmanuel Macron addressed the strikes in Paris, asserting that the U.S.-Israel operation was not pre-announced or coordinated with France. He prioritized the safety of French nationals and assets, stressing the need for diplomacy to regain control. This stance contrasted with comments from Donald Trump’s ally, Lindsey Graham, who criticized Western Europe for its perceived weakness.
In Qatar, public events and gatherings have been suspended due to safety concerns, with hotels and tourism sites also closing. Smoke was observed over Doha following reported missile strikes, while a fire broke out near Dubai’s Fairmont The Palm hotel amid debris from an Iranian attack. These incidents underscore the regional ripple effects of the conflict.
