Iran’s Ali Shamkhani: Alive and Recovering? Confusion Surrounds Top Advisor After Airstrike Claims

Conflicting reports have emerged concerning the status of Ali Shamkhani, a top advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Initial reports suggested that Shamkhani was killed in an Israeli airstrike on June 13. However, recent claims from Iranian media indicate that he is alive and recovering from serious injuries sustained in the attack. A statement attributed to Shamkhani, published by several state-affiliated media outlets, reads, “I am alive and ready to sacrifice myself.” This message was reportedly conveyed to Ayatollah Khamenei. These reports stand in stark contrast to earlier announcements about the death of other key figures in Iran’s military leadership. Shamkhani, who served as Iran’s national security chief for a decade and began advising Khamenei in 2023, held significant roles within the Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) and the defense ministry. His strategic importance also extended to Iran’s foreign relations, with recognition from figures in Washington and Europe for his diplomatic efforts. His alleged death occurred during a series of Israeli attacks targeting approximately 20 high-ranking Iranian military officers. These attacks prompted a retaliatory response from Iran involving ballistic missile strikes against Israel, leading to casualties and injuries on both sides.