Irans Supreme Leader Khamenei faces growing security concerns over his position

US and Israel Launch New Attacks on Iran, Targeting Supreme Leader’s Compound

The United States and Israel have conducted a new round of attacks on Iran, targeting areas linked to the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei in Tehran. According to reports, seven missiles hit an area near the presidential palace and near Khamenei’s compound in Shemiran, north of the capital.

Khamenei, who has been Iran’s Supreme Leader since 1989, is a key figure in the country’s government and military. He holds ultimate authority over all branches of government, the military, and the judiciary, as well as acting as the country’s spiritual leader.

The attacks have raised questions about efforts to target Iran’s security and leadership apparatus. Khamenei has been at odds with the West, including intense sanctions, and has called the US Iran’s “number one enemy”. He has also long stated that Iran would never build a nuclear weapon and that its nuclear programme is for civilian purposes only.

Iranian media report that Khamenei was not in Tehran when the attacks occurred, but had been transferred to a secure location. Officials from both countries have previously issued threats against Khamenei, with some suggesting he could be targeted through assassination.

In recent remarks, US President Donald Trump has urged Iranians to overthrow their government, stating that “regime change” would be “the best thing that could happen”. Trump has also made previous comments appearing to threaten Khamenei, including saying the Iranian leader should be “very worried”.

The attacks have sparked concerns about the stability of Iran’s leadership and the potential for further conflict in the region.

Source: Al Jazeera