Israel has stated that the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was in line with international law governing armed conflict, asserting that he was the commander-in-chief of Iran’s military and therefore a legitimate military target.
The conflict in the Middle East, which began on Saturday, was sparked by coordinated strikes from the US and Israel on Iran, including the attack that killed Khamenei.
Israeli officials have argued that the strikes were necessary to protect the country’s national security, citing concerns that Iran was rebuilding its nuclear weapons program in a new underground facility.
Israel’s military spokesperson, Nadav Shoshani, stated that the operation complied with international law, explaining that military commanders actively directing armed forces during war can be considered lawful targets. He described Khamenei as the ultimate decision-maker in Iran’s military operations, responsible for directing attacks against Israel and overseeing support for the country’s proxy groups.
Shoshani added that neutralizing Iran’s top military leader would significantly reduce the country’s ability to plan and coordinate assaults against Israel.
Iranian media reported that Khamenei’s wife, son-in-law, and two minor grandchildren were also killed in the strike. In response, Iran has launched a series of missile attacks on Israel and other targets across the Middle East, including US military and diplomatic installations.
Both Israel and the United States have continued airstrikes on targets within Iran amid escalating tensions.
