Iran’s Supreme Leader’s Top Adviser Shamkhani Not Killed in Israeli Strike

As the Iran–Israel conflict continues, new information has emerged: Ali Shamkhani, the top adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, was not killed in the Israeli strike. On Saturday (June 28), he appeared in full health at the funeral service for those killed in the attacks.On June 13, Israel had claimed to have killed Shamkhani—an assertion confirmed by Iran. However, Iran’s state news agency IRNA and other outlets reported that Shamkhani had survived, albeit seriously injured and hospitalized. Because no photographs or videos surfaced for some time, rumors of his death gained traction. Ultimately, state television and news media dispelled all doubts by broadcasting his presence and a live interview.Reports indicate that on Saturday, Iran held a state funeral for fallen military officers and nuclear scientists—and included prayers on behalf of Shamkhani. During a sudden live interview on state channel IRIB that same day, Shamkhani was seen in person. He later participated in the funeral ceremony honoring the dead, footage of which IRIB also aired.In the interview, Shamkhani recounted that his residence collapsed during the Israeli airstrike, trapping him under the rubble for nearly three hours. “I performed the dawn prayer from beneath the debris,” he said. “At first, I thought it was an earthquake, but when I heard the roar of vehicles, I realized it was a military attack.”He added that he remained fully conscious throughout, devising a plan for escape and felt no fear. “My past experiences had mentally prepared me,” he explained.Shamkhani stressed that Iran’s armed forces and security agencies were fully prepared: “All plans had been made in advance, and the operation proceeded accordingly.”He also emphasized that Iran stands resolutely ready to deter any aggression or infiltration. He warned of the continual need for vigilance and additional strengthening of military capabilities to counter threats.Earlier in his career, Shamkhani served as Commander of Iran’s Navy and later oversaw the Ministry of Defense. He was subsequently appointed Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, and he currently serves as the Supreme Leader’s top security adviser.