A former US ambassador has sparked global concern by claiming that former US President Donald Trump could attempt to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in the coming week.
Dan Shapiro, who served as the American ambassador to Israel from 2011 to 2017 under President Barack Obama, made the alarming claim, citing Trump’s recent remarks calling Khamenei, 86, a “sick man” and advocating for new leadership in Iran. Shapiro added that Khamenei’s provocations on social media, alongside the ongoing mass anti-government protests in Iran, suggest heightened risk of direct US military action.
Shapiro highlighted the recent deployment of a US carrier strike group to the Middle East, which he says could facilitate both air and ground operations against Iranian targets. He warned that such strikes might include attacks on Iranian forces in addition to Khamenei, aiming to pressure the Iranian regime in response to the violent suppression of protests that have reportedly killed thousands.
Trump's comments to @politico on needing new leadership in Iran, and Khamenei's mindless baiting of Trump on X, lead me to believe that Trump is going to try to kill the Supreme Leader this week.
— Dan Shapiro (@DanielBShapiro) January 17, 2026
There will soon be a US carrier strike group in the Middle East, making it easier…
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However, Shapiro cautioned that even if Trump were to act against Khamenei, the removal of Iran’s Supreme Leader would not immediately trigger regime change. He explained that an initial Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) takeover would likely follow, and that sustainable political transformation would require persistent, largely non-military support for Iranian citizens seeking freedom.
Shapiro also emphasized that statements by former officials reflect personal assessments rather than confirmed policy. No official confirmation has been issued by Donald Trump or US authorities regarding any plans targeting Khamenei. Analysts warn that a direct strike could provoke severe retaliation, destabilize the Middle East, and have global security implications.
The claim comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. While Iranian authorities have yet to respond officially, international observers are closely monitoring the situation, highlighting the fragility of the regional security environment.
