Iranian Ex-President Ahmadinejad Reportedly Killed in Tehran Airstrike

Iran’s former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, aged 69, was killed in an airstrike on his home in eastern Tehran, according to Iran’s ILNA state news agency, as reported by the German Press Agency (dpa). He and his bodyguard both lost their lives in the strike.

Ahmadinejad led Iran from 2005 to 2013. Early in his presidency he enjoyed strong support from the country’s Shiite clergy and conservative lawmakers. However, by the end of his tenure he had become a divisive figure. His hard-line stance on Iran’s nuclear program drew international sanctions and contributed to economic difficulties.

During his time in office, Ahmadinejad also faced widespread condemnation for making anti-Semitic comments. His rhetoric and policies strained Iran’s global relationships, particularly due to military threats against Israel and his refusal to acknowledge the Holocaust. The controversy surrounding his leadership grew over time, losing favor even with some of his initial backers.