Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been confirmed dead by Iranian state media after a joint US-Israeli attack on Tehran on Saturday February 28. The 86-year-old leader was reportedly killed at his office compound, and a 40-day mourning period has been announced.
The attack, which targeted Khamenei and other top leaders, has sparked tensions in the Middle East, with Iran vowing to retaliate. US President Donald Trump claimed responsibility for the strike, stating it was aimed at disabling Iran’s nuclear capabilities. He said Khamenei was “one of the most evil people in history” and his death is a chance for the Iranians to take back their country which he had ruled as Supreme Leader over 37 years.
Khamenei’s death creates uncertainty about Iran’s future leadership, with a council of three officials set to temporarily assume duties.
Khamenei has ruled Iran for over four decades first serving as President between 1981 and 1989 after taking over from the assassinated Mohammad-Ali Rajai. He then became elected as Supreme Leader in 1989 a position he has held till his assassination on Saturday.
Surprisingly some Iranians rejoiced over the news and celebrated Khamenei’s death mostly in central Iran and Isfahan where there was a bonfire and fireworks. Other Iranians were also seen mourning is death holding up his photo wearing black.
