Is Netanyahu planning to assassinate Iran leader? Israeli PM drops shocking hint

Israel and Iran exchanged deadly fire for a fifth day on Tuesday in their most intense confrontation in history.

Updated on: Jun 17, 2025, 11:07:12 IST

By HT News Desk

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In another fiery statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not rule out the possibility of assassinating Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and declared that such an action could bring a definitive end to the long-standing conflict between Israel and Iran.

Israel's army on Tuesday warned that it had detected new missiles launched from Iran. (AP)

In a 20-minute interview with US network ABC News, Netanyahu rejected the notion that targeting Khamenei would have escalated hostilities. Instead, he argued it would "end the conflict."

Netanyahu made the remarks when asked about reports that US President Donald Trump vetoed an Israeli plan to kill the supreme leader out of concern it would escalate the Iran-Israel showdown.

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"It's not going to escalate the conflict, it's going to end the conflict," he said.

The Israeli leader also defended his country's aggression to "defang" Iran and equated Khamenei to a "modern Hitler."

"In fact, what Israel is doing is preventing this, bringing an end to this aggression, and we can only do so by standing up to the forces of evil."

Also Read | Israel releases video of strikes on F-14 jets in Tehran, says drone attack was thwarted

Pressed on whether Israel is currently pursuing a direct attack on Iran’s supreme leader, Netanyahu remained deliberately vague, stating, “We’re doing what we need to do.”

Israel-Iran conflict

Israel and Iran exchanged deadly fire for a fifth day on Tuesday in their most intense confrontation in history, fuelling fears of an all-out war in the Middle East.

Israel's army on Tuesday warned that it had detected new missiles launched from Iran.

Also Read | Trump finally explains ‘evacuate Tehran’ post; multiple explosions heard in Iran capital amid Israel tensions

In a major campaign launched early Friday, Israeli fighter jets and drones have struck nuclear and military sites in Iran, also hitting residential areas and fuel depots.

Iran's health ministry says at least 224 people have been killed and more than 1,200 wounded.

Tehran has responded with barrages of missiles and drones, killing at least 24 people and wounding 592 others, according to the prime minister's office.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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