Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has been reported dead following joint US-Israel airstrikes, triggering sharp global reactions and escalating tensions across the Middle East.
US President Donald Trump confirmed Khamenei’s death in a social media post, while Iranian state media also reported that the 86-year-old cleric was killed early Saturday in his office during coordinated strikes.
However, conflicting signals emerged earlier as some Iranian outlets had initially refrained from officially confirming the death.
Iran Declares 40 Days of Mourning
Iran has announced:
40 days of national mourning
Seven-day public holiday
Flags at half-mast nationwide
Public gatherings to honour the late leader
In Shia Islam, the 40th day after death (Arba’een) holds significant religious importance. The mourning period is seen as both symbolic and politically strategic as Iran navigates a leadership transition.
President Pezeshkian: ‘A Great Crime’
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned the killing as “a great crime” and vowed retaliation.
“This great crime will never remain unanswered,” his office said, adding that Iran would respond with “all our strength and determination.”
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned of a “severe, decisive and regret-inducing punishment,” announcing what it described as the “most devastating offensive operation in the history of the Islamic Republic.”
Family Members Also Killed
Iranian state media reported that Khamenei’s daughter, grandchild, daughter-in-law and son-in-law were also killed in the strikes.
Regional Fallout
Iran launched retaliatory missiles and drones targeting Israel and US military bases.
A fire broke out at Jebel Ali Port in Dubai following debris from intercepted projectiles.
Israel stated it had coordinated with the US for months to plan the strikes.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Khamenei “will not be mourned,” citing Iran’s missile, nuclear and proxy policies.
Leadership Transition: What Happens Next?
Under Iran’s constitution:
A temporary leadership council has assumed authority.
The 88-member Assembly of Experts must appoint a new Supreme Leader.
The council includes the President and judiciary chief.
Speculation has intensified over potential successors, including figures close to the clerical establishment and members of Khamenei’s family.
A 37-Year Era Ends
Khamenei had ruled Iran since 1989, succeeding Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic. His tenure defined Iran’s defiance of Western influence and shaped its regional strategy for nearly four decades.
