US reportedly considers plan to assassinate Iran's Supreme Leader

Middle Eastern outlets present the reported US assassination planning as a direct threat to Iran’s leadership and a move that could ignite a wider regional war. They stress Khamenei’s decision to name a security chief to run the country in case of war or his killing as proof that Tehran expects serious confrontation. They link these reports to ongoing nuclear talks, arguing that any deal must address Iran’s security concerns as well as sanctions relief.

• •US officials considered killing Ayatollah Khamenei and his son as part of pressure on Iran.
• •Khamenei has entrusted the Supreme National Security Council secretary to manage the country if war or assassination incapacitates him.
• •Iran has prepared wartime plans to keep state institutions functioning even if top leaders are killed.
• •Middle Eastern commentators warn that an attack on Khamenei could trigger Iranian strikes across the region.
• •Regional analysts say Iran wants both sanctions relief and guarantees against efforts to overthrow or decapitate its leadership.