Russia’s Putin Declines to Comment on Khamenei Assassination Speculation, Urges Diplomatic Solution

Russian President Vladimir Putin declined to comment on speculation that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei could be targeted in an assassination attempt amid ongoing hostilities between Iran and Israel.

Speaking Thursday at the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin said:

“I do not even want to discuss this possibility. I do not want to,” when asked about remarks suggesting Khamenei might be a potential target.

The question followed comments made earlier in the week by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who warned that the conflict could result in regime change in Iran. Since the escalation of hostilities last Friday, airstrikes have reportedly killed over 580 people in Iran, including nearly 240 civilians, according to a U.S.-based human rights organization.

U.S. President Donald Trump also weighed in, stating that the U.S. is aware of Khamenei’s location and could act but has chosen not to “for now.” Trump has not ruled out the possibility of deeper American involvement.

Putin, without addressing the actions of any one country, called for a peaceful resolution and noted signs of internal cohesion in Iran.

“We see that today in Iran, despite the complexity of internal political processes, there is consolidation around the country’s leadership,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of protecting the security interests of all nations involved, stating that a peaceful solution would require safeguarding both Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear activity and Israel’s national security.

“This is a delicate issue,” he said. “But in my opinion, a solution can be found.”

Putin has repeatedly advocated for de-escalation and dialogue throughout the conflict, emphasizing diplomatic channels over military confrontation.

With input from Al Jazeera