NEW DELHI: In a dramatic revelation that could escalate regional tensions, Israeli military officials reportedly considered targeting Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during the recent 12-day conflict between the two arch-rivals.
According to Israeli media reports citing unnamed defense sources, the idea was discussed at the highest levels within Israel’s security establishment as a potential retaliation measure following Iran’s drone and missile barrage on Israeli territory last month.
While the plot was ultimately not executed, the very fact that such a high-stakes option was on the table underscores the deepening hostilities and the risks of full-scale war in the Middle East.
Israel has neither confirmed nor denied the report. However, former senior officials speaking on condition of anonymity said the plan was “credible, precise, and technically feasible,” though it carried massive geopolitical risks — including direct war with Iran and condemnation from global powers.
Iran has not officially commented on the report, but the regime has in the past accused Israel and the U.S. of targeting top leaders and scientists.
International observers have expressed alarm over the reports. “An assassination attempt on a head of state would be a major escalation and likely trigger a chain of retaliatory actions,” said a senior UN official familiar with Middle East affairs.
This revelation follows weeks of cross-border strikes, including Israel’s targeting of Iran-linked militias in Syria and Iran’s cyber and missile threats. While a fragile ceasefire is currently in place, tensions remain extremely high.
If verified, the news marks a dangerous new chapter in the Israel–Iran conflict — shifting the shadow war into a more direct and personal realm, and raising serious concerns about the future of regional stability.
