Who is Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei and why is he a possible target?

The United States and Israel have launched a new round of attacks on Iran, targeting areas in Tehran linked to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Khamenei, who has been Iran’s leader since 1989, holds ultimate authority over the government, military, and judiciary. Both countries have previously issued threats against Khamenei, with Israel’s Defence Minister stating he “cannot continue to exist” and President Trump suggesting regime change in Iran would be beneficial. The goal of the latest attack was to potentially “decapitate” Iran’s leadership, with Trump urging Iranians to overthrow their government.

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