The recent joint US and Israeli attacks on Iran have increased tensions in the region and brought the figure of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei back into the spotlight.
Where did the attacks take place?
According to Iranian media, the attacks hit several areas across the country, including the capital Tehran. The semi-official Tasnim news agency reported that several rockets landed near the presidential palace in the Shemiran area, as well as near the compound where Khamenei's offices are located. The Associated Press also reported strikes near his offices in the capital.
Khamenei's current whereabouts remain unclear. Reuters, citing sources, reported that he is not in Tehran and has been moved to a safe location.
Who is Ali Khamenei?
The 86-year-old has been Iran's Supreme Leader since 1989, following the death of the Islamic Republic's founder, Ruhollah Khomeini. He holds ultimate authority over all branches of government - the government, the military and the judiciary - as well as the role of the country's spiritual leader.
During his rule, Iran has faced harsh Western sanctions, domestic protests and ongoing tensions with the US and Israel. Khamenei has called the US Iran's "number one enemy".
A key element of his power is the loyalty of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Basij paramilitary forces, which constitute the regime's security pillar.
Khamenei has repeatedly stated that Iran does not seek to build nuclear weapons and that its nuclear program is for civilian purposes. U.S. intelligence agencies and the International Atomic Energy Agency have found no evidence of an active nuclear weapons program, although Israel and Trump administration officials have expressed doubts.
Why is it considered objective?
American and Israeli officials have previously made harsh statements against Khamenei. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said he “cannot continue to exist” as head of the Iranian state. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has suggested that his possible elimination could end the long-running conflict.
US President Donald Trump has also stated that Khamenei should be "very concerned" and has implied that regime change in Iran would be "the best thing that could happen."
According to analysts, the latest attacks appear to be aimed at "decapitating" the Iranian political elite and security apparatus. However, it remains unclear how effective these strikes have been and whether the situation will escalate further.
Tensions in the Middle East continue to rise, as the region faces a new phase of direct confrontation.
