Iran’s Ali Khamenei, who based iron rule on fiery hostility to US and Israel, killed at 86
Summary
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader for 36 years, was killed at 86 in air strikes by Israel and the US amidst ongoing regional conflicts and nuclear program disputes.
Key Points
- Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ruled Iran for 36 years, establishing strong anti-US influence in the Middle East.
- He was killed in 2026 at age 86 by air strikes from Israel and the US targeting Tehran's compound.
- Khamenei maintained Iran's hardline stance, opposing the US and supporting regional militias despite international criticism.
- His leadership saw escalation of Iran-Israel conflicts, culminating in all-out war after Israel’s 2025 attacks on Iran.