Israeli Defense Minister threatens to assassinate Khamenei

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz on Thursday issued a direct threat against Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following a missile strike that reportedly targeted Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba.

"Khamenei will pay for his crimes," Katz declared, in response to Iranian ballistic missiles allegedly launched toward southern Israel.

The defense minister also announced that Israel would begin targeting a new range of strategic sites within Iran, aiming to “eliminate the threats facing the State of Israel and to shake the foundations of the ayatollahs’ regime.”

It remains unclear whether Katz's remarks signal a formal decision by the Israeli government to pursue the assassination of Khamenei. U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly expressed reluctance to authorize such an action, preferring to leave room for potential diplomatic negotiations with Tehran.

Some analysts interpret Katz’s comments as an escalation in rhetoric rather than a definitive policy shift—potentially intended to pressure Iran’s leadership while allowing time for diplomatic efforts to continue.

The vow to “shake” Iran’s regime marks a notable escalation in tone, suggesting a move closer to advocating for regime change. However, most defense experts remain skeptical about Israel’s ability to destabilize or overthrow the Islamic Republic, a nation of 90 million with a deeply entrenched leadership and significant popular support.

By contrast, even after a prolonged military campaign in Gaza, Hamas—though weakened—continues to function both politically and militarily.

Iran’s regime, experts note, is significantly more resilient and complex, with broad institutional support and a loyal base across the country.