Iran Attacks: Khamenei Reportedly Killed in US-Israel Strikes – Live Updates

Live Updates: Reported Civilian Deaths in Iran Following US-Israeli Strikes, UN Security Council Meets

The United Nations Security Council convened an emergency meeting Sunday, March 1, 2026, following reports of hundreds of civilian deaths and injuries in Iran resulting from US and Israeli strikes. Iran’s ambassador to the UN, Amir-Saeid Iravani, stated that these attacks have resulted in significant civilian casualties. The situation unfolds amidst escalating tensions and a complex history of conflict in the region. This live report will provide updates as they become available, separating confirmed information from reports that remain unverified.

What We Know So Far: Attacks and Retaliation

The immediate trigger for the current crisis appears to be a series of strikes conducted by the United States and Israel against targets within Iran. Iravani characterized Iran’s subsequent attacks as an act of self-defense, asserting that bases belonging to hostile forces represent legitimate military targets. Details regarding the specific targets and the extent of the damage remain limited, but the scale of the reported civilian impact is raising serious concerns within the international community. The UN chief, Antonio Guterres, condemned the “escalation” of conflict, expressing regret that diplomatic opportunities appear to have been “squandered.”

Unconfirmed Reports: Death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Multiple Iranian state media outlets are reporting the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. State broadcaster IRIB reported, “The Supreme Leader of Iran Has Reached Martyrdom.” The US and Israel claim Khamenei was killed during the barrage of joint strikes. Still, this claim has not been independently confirmed. The veracity of these reports is currently being assessed, and further verification is needed before this information can be considered factual.

Background: A History of Conflict

This latest escalation builds upon a fraught history between Iran, the United States, and Israel. The current situation is described as the latest upheaval for Iranians, occurring weeks after a government crackdown on nationwide unrest and approximately eight months after a 12-day war with Israel, during which the United States reportedly bombed Iranian nuclear sites. Understanding this context is crucial to grasping the current crisis. The relationship between these nations has been marked by periods of intense hostility, punctuated by attempts at diplomatic resolution, often unsuccessful. For a broader understanding of the historical tensions, see the Council on Foreign Relations’ backgrounder on Iran.

Confirmed vs. Unclear: Separating Fact from Report

It is vital to distinguish between confirmed reports and those that remain unverified. As of this update:

• Confirmed: An emergency meeting of the UN Security Council has taken place. Antonio Guterres has condemned the escalation of conflict. Iran’s ambassador has reported civilian casualties.
• Unconfirmed: The death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The full extent of the damage caused by the strikes. The specific targets of the attacks.

We will continue to update this report as more information becomes available and is independently verified.

The Pentagon’s Response: “OPERATION EPIC FURY”

The Pentagon has announced that the US strikes against Iran have been designated “OPERATION EPIC FURY.” This naming convention suggests a significant and coordinated military operation. Details regarding the objectives and scope of “OPERATION EPIC FURY” are currently limited, but the name itself indicates a deliberate and forceful response to perceived threats.

US President Trump’s Stance

US President Donald Trump has stated that the operation aims to eliminate a security threat to the United States and to create an opportunity for Iranians to overthrow their current government. This statement reveals a clear articulation of US objectives, framing the military action as both a defensive measure and a catalyst for political change within Iran.

Iran’s Internal Warning

Iran’s top security body has issued a warning to its citizens, anticipating further attacks on Tehran and other cities. They are urging people to relocate to safer areas if possible, highlighting the perceived imminent danger. This advisory underscores the escalating tensions and the potential for widespread disruption within Iran.

What Happens Next?

The immediate next steps are likely to involve continued monitoring of the situation by the UN Security Council. Further diplomatic efforts, though seemingly stalled, may be attempted. The potential for further escalation remains high, and the international community is bracing for a potentially protracted period of instability. The response from Iran will be critical in determining the trajectory of the conflict. The UN’s role in mediating a ceasefire or facilitating negotiations will be crucial, but the prospects for a swift resolution appear dim given the current level of animosity and distrust.