“War Has Begun”: Khamenei Responds to Trump’s Threat

For the first time, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has responded after former U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to assassinate him.

On Tuesday, Khamenei posted a message on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), declaring:
“In the name of the Honorable Haidar, the war has begun.”

‘Haidar’ is another name for Hazrat Ali (RA), the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and the fourth Caliph of Islam. Shia Muslims, particularly in Iran, consider him their first Imam and a revered figure.

Khamenei’s strong statement came shortly after Trump made a bold remark, saying:
“We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding.”
He added that although Khamenei is an easy target, the U.S. will not act—“at least not for now.”

At the same time, tensions are rising as reports emerge that Trump is considering a joint military strike with Israel on Iran’s nuclear facilities. CBS News, citing multiple sources, revealed that strategic sites like Fordow may be targeted.

Sources also confirmed that a White House meeting was planned to discuss the attack, though Trump’s advisors have yet to reach a final agreement.

In an interview with TRT World, a senior U.S. diplomat confirmed that military action against Iran’s nuclear sites is “under consideration,” but emphasized that no final decision has been made.