Yet, according to American officials, Donald Trump vetoed an Israeli plan to kill Khamenei, refusing to entertain the idea of “going after the political leadership” on the grounds that Iran had not killed any Americans.

The rejection comes as Iran threatens to strike U.S. military installations if it continues to assist Israel in its defense against Iranian airstrikes.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said its armed forces will "bring Israel to its knees" after it has carried out dozens of airstrikes on the Islamic republic's nuclear and military facilities starting early Friday.