In his rare appearances at Friday sermons, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei keeps a loaded gun by his side, especially during the ongoing war with Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has openly expressed his desire for Khamenei's demise. Living in bunkers, Khamenei has survived assassination attempts in the past. So, who is Ali Khamenei? How did he come to power in Iran? And who are the individuals targeting him? Let's delve into a profile of this influential figure.

Ali Khamenei, Iran's second supreme leader

Sayyed Ali Hosseini Khamenei has been the Supreme Leader of Iran since 1989, succeeding Ruhollah Musavi Khomeini. Born in 1939 in Mashhad, Iran, Khamenei is a 'Grand Ayatollah' who studied Islamic theology under notable scholars like Khomeini. With a political career marked by protests, arrests, and exile, Khamenei's commitment to Islamic governance and resistance against Western influence is deeply rooted.

Confidant and inheritor of Khomeini's power

Following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Khamenei became a close confidant of Khomeini and played key roles in Iran's government and clergy. From serving as Tehran's Friday Prayers Imam to being elected President of Iran, Khamenei eventually ascended to the position of Supreme Leader after Khomeini's passing. Over the years, he has held various significant positions in Iran's political landscape.

Rise through the ranks: From president to Supreme Leader

Surviving multiple assassination attempts, including a bomb attack in 1981 and a suicide bombing in 1985, Khamenei has faced threats to his life. While the perpetrators of these attacks remain officially unnamed, Israel has been a prominent adversary seeking Khamenei's demise. Recent airstrikes by Israel have targeted Khamenei's inner circle, raising concerns about his safety and stability in power.

As one of the longest-serving leaders in West Asia, Khamenei's resilience in the face of threats and challenges continues to be tested. The future holds uncertainties for this influential figure amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.