US president says he is confident about who is giving orders in Tehran but refuses to disclose identity as regional tensions escalate
WASHINGTON: Donald Trump said he knows who is effectively leading Iran following reports that the country’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was killed in recent strikes, but declined to reveal the individual’s name.
In a telephone interview with a U.S. television network, Trump said he was “very confident” about who is now giving orders in Tehran. When asked whether he would support the new figure, he responded that there are “some good candidates” capable of taking charge.
The remarks followed claims by Israeli officials alleging Khamenei was assassinated in coordinated U.S. and Israeli operations. Trump also posted on Truth Social that the Iranian leader “is dead,” describing the operation as precise and intelligence-driven.
However, Iranian media rejected the reports, denying that Khamenei had been killed. Conflicting accounts have fueled uncertainty over Iran’s leadership and heightened tensions across the region.
Trump further stated that heavy bombing would continue “as long as necessary,” framing the actions as part of efforts to secure peace in the Middle East. The developments have drawn intense global scrutiny amid fears of broader political and military fallout.
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