The article explores the implications of targeting leaders, particularly with reference to the recent discussion around the assassination of Iranian leader Ali Khamenei. A former Israeli diplomat, Avi Gil, suggests that this act might not only represent a dramatic security development in the Middle East but may also signify a deeper transformation in the rules of international conflict. He argues that assassinations could become an openly recognized tool in international politics, shifting the focus away from conventional state-to-state warfare.

Gil elaborates on the intersection of various global shifts that make such actions more conceivable, emphasizing the current international system's inability to contain major threats and a declining trust in the liberal global order. He points out that the rise of populism, combined with advancements in technology, particularly in drones and artificial intelligence, creates an environment where targeting leaders is more feasible than ever. This confluence of factors may lead to a scenario where assassination is increasingly used as a tactic by states against their adversaries.

In conclusion, the targeting of leaders like Khamenei might mark a pivotal moment in the evolution of international relations, where the elimination of authoritative figures becomes a frequent engagement method. This shift raises concerns about the future of international diplomacy and the ethical implications of employing assassination as a political tool, reflecting a dramatic transformation in how power struggles are waged in the modern world.