Netanyahu Says Killing Iran’s Supreme Leader Could End Ongoing War

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has suggested that assassinating Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, could bring an end to the ongoing hostilities between both nations.

In a 20-minute interview with ABC News, Netanyahu defended Israel’s military campaign, insisting it was necessary to “defang” what he described as a growing threat to Israel and global stability.

When asked about reports that former U.S. President Donald Trump once blocked an Israeli plan to eliminate Khamenei out of fear it would trigger a wider war, Netanyahu dismissed the concerns.

“It’s not going to escalate the conflict, it’s going to end the conflict,” he said.

Netanyahu also likened Khamenei to a “modern Hitler,” accusing him of pushing the region to the edge of a nuclear disaster. “The ‘forever war’ is what Iran wants, and they’re bringing us to the brink of nuclear war,” he said. “What Israel is doing is standing up to the forces of evil.”

While he stopped short of confirming an active assassination plot, Netanyahu said, “We’re doing what we need to do.”

The conflict has escalated sharply, with Israeli airstrikes hitting Iranian nuclear sites, missile depots, and military bases. In response, Iran has launched waves of missiles at Israeli targets, deepening fears of a broader regional war.

Despite growing international concern, Netanyahu remained defiant, portraying the conflict as part of a global struggle. “Today it’s Tel Aviv, tomorrow it’s New York,” he warned, saying Iran’s nuclear program and long-range missile development threaten the wider West.

In recent days, Netanyahu has increased his outreach to U.S. audiences in a bid to solidify American support. He accused Khamenei of fueling terrorism across the region and vowed Israel would never allow Iran to obtain the weapons it seeks.

“He’s like a modern Hitler. He just will not stop,” Netanyahu said. “But we’re going to make sure he doesn’t have the means to carry out his threats.”

The Israeli leader insisted the military operation is not only about defense but about reshaping the region’s future.

“It’s about preventing the most horrific war imaginable,” he said. “And making peace in the Middle East possible—once Iran is defanged.”