JERUSALEM: Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz revealed that Israel would have assassinated Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei during the recent war if the opportunity had arisen. He said Khamenei went deep underground and severed contact with his commanders, making the operation unfeasible.
Katz confirmed that Israel had halted assassination plans after the ceasefire, and advised Khamenei to remain in hiding, referencing Hezbollah’s former leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in a 2024 Israeli airstrike.
He also claimed Israeli airstrikes had destroyed Iran’s uranium enrichment facilities, though admitted that not all enriched uranium locations were known. Katz asserted Israel would prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons and remains ready to strike again if necessary.
The 12-day war, which began on June 13 and ended with a ceasefire on June 24, saw both sides claiming victory. Israel said its campaign aimed to stop Iran’s nuclear ambitions—an allegation Iran denies.