https://www.npr.org/2026/03/17/g-s1-114070/assassination-iran-supreme-leader-questions-democracies
A hardline media figure has alleged on social media platform X that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf were involved in events culminating in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This claim surfaces amidst ongoing tension in Iran, following Khamenei’s assassination on February 28, 2026, during US and Israeli airstrikes. Despite these claims, both Pezeshkian and Ghalibaf were present at Khamenei’s state funeral, contradicting assertions of their avoidance. The allegations are seen as efforts to discredit the current leadership amid the conflict with the US and Israel.
Key Takeaways
The claim appears to have increased activity around the potential departure of President Masoud Pezeshkian, with odds rising from 16% to 18.5% for his exit by year-end.
Allegations against Pezeshkian and Ghalibaf suggest political maneuvering by hardliners during a period of national instability.
