Amidst the backdrop of heightened tensions and reported attacks, confusion reigns regarding the fate of Ali Shamkhani, a key advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Contrary to earlier reports that he perished in an Israeli airstrike on June 13, Iranian media sources now assert that Shamkhani is alive and recuperating from injuries sustained in the attack. A message attributed to Shamkhani, which was disseminated across multiple state-aligned news outlets, stated, “The victory is near. The name of Iran will shine in the heights of history as always.” This statement was reportedly directed towards Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The conflicting reports follow earlier announcements of the deaths of key figures in Iran’s military. Shamkhani’s prominence stemmed from his tenure as Iran’s national security chief for ten years, alongside his more recent role as advisor to Khamenei since 2023. He played a vital role within the IRGC and the defense ministry. Shamkhani’s influence was also felt in international relations, with recognition from Washington and European circles. The alleged attack occurred amidst a broader pattern of Israeli attacks against high-ranking Iranian officials. Retaliatory measures from Iran involved a barrage of ballistic missiles aimed at Israel, causing casualties and injuries.
Is Khamenei’s Advisor Shamkhani Alive? Iranian Media Contradicts Death Reports Amidst Airstrike Fallout
