Netanyahu Claims Destruction of Khamenei's Compound Amidst Iranian Denials
Netanyahu's Bold Declaration
During a televised speech on Saturday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a surprising announcement, asserting that Israel had obliterated what he termed the "compound of the tyrant Khamenei," referring to Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has been in power for over thirty years.
He further claimed, "There are many indications that this tyrant is gone," a statement that, if accurate, could represent a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern history. However, Iran's government quickly refuted this assertion, affirming that their supreme leader was alive and well.netanyahu
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Satellite Evidence of Damage
What Satellite Images Reveal
Regardless of the truth regarding Khamenei's status, the damage to his compound is evident. A report from a prominent news outlet indicated that satellite images taken by Airbus on Saturday morning displayed collapsed structures and a significant plume of black smoke emanating from the secure area typically used as Khamenei's residence. The extent of the destruction was substantial and unmistakable. However, it remained uncertain for several hours whether Khamenei was present during the missile strikes.
Iran's Quick Rebuttal
Iran's Response: 'Safe and Sound'
In response to the Israeli claims, Iranian officials acted swiftly. Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry, stated in an interview that both Supreme Leader Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian were "safe and sound." This statement coincided with Netanyahu's claims, resulting in a real-time public contradiction between the two nations. Throughout the day, conflicting reports from Israeli and Iranian officials left the actual status of Iran's leadership unclear.
Netanyahu's Message to Both Nations
Netanyahu's Message, To Israelis and Iranians Alike
Alongside his address, Netanyahu took to social media, describing the operation in grand terms. He stated, "This morning, Israel and the United States initiated a joint operation to eliminate the existential threat posed by the Ayatollahs' regime in Iran." He expressed gratitude to President Trump, highlighting the close collaboration between the two nations, and emphasized the mission's goal of preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. Additionally, he addressed the Iranian populace directly, encouraging them to seize what he termed an opportunity for their future and freedom, concluding with the message: "The people of Israel live."