If Khamenei were to die due to external hostile forces (especially the United States, which is referred to as the "Great Satan"), he would immediately be deified as a modern martyr hero.

This sentiment can transcend social classes,
reuniting believers who were originally dissatisfied with his policies
under the banner of religion.
In the belief system of Shia Muslims,
"Martyrdom" is the highest spiritual elevation.
Khamenei being killed during Ramadan at his official residence by Western forces almost perfectly fits the tragic hero archetype of "Karbala" in Shia narrative.
He would not be merely seen as a victim of war, but revered as a "saint" alongside Imam Hussain.
This "martyr" identity would become the best mobilization tool for Iran's theocratic regime.