Putin refuses to comment on reports of Israel targeting Iran’s Khamenei

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declined to comment on speculation that Israel, possibly with U.S. backing, might try to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Instead, he highlighted strong support for Iran’s leadership among its people.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has suggested Israeli strikes could lead to regime change in Iran. Former U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday that the U.S. knows Khamenei’s location but is “not going to kill him—for now.”

Asked about a possible assassination, Putin said, “I do not even want to discuss this possibility.”

Putin also pointed out that despite internal challenges, Iranian society is rallying behind its leaders. He urged all parties to seek peaceful solutions that respect Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy and Israel’s security.

The comments come as the U.S. keeps the world guessing over whether it will join Israel’s airstrikes against Iranian nuclear and missile sites. Meanwhile, residents continue fleeing Tehran amid ongoing attacks.

Putin added he has been in contact with both Trump and Netanyahu, sharing Russia’s ideas for resolving the crisis while preserving Iran’s civilian nuclear program.