Iranian state media have confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed in coordinated airstrikes carried out by the United States and Israel.
The announcement, made on Sunday, follows earlier claims by both American and Israeli officials that the 86-year-old leader had been eliminated during the attacks. Authorities in Tehran have declared a 40-day national mourning period in honour of the longtime leader.
Initial reports by Iranian outlets had suggested that Khamenei remained “steadfast and firm in commanding the field,” but subsequent confirmation by state media marked a dramatic turn in the unfolding crisis.
US President Donald Trump had earlier stated on his Truth Social platform that Khamenei was killed during the strikes, describing the operation as highly coordinated and intelligence-driven.
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also indicated that there were “growing signs” of the Iranian leader’s death, while security sources cited by international media reported that his body had been located.
Khamenei, who assumed leadership in 1989 following the death of Ruhollah Khomeini, held ultimate authority over Iran’s political, military, and religious institutions, making him one of the most powerful figures in the Middle East for over three decades.
Analysts say his death introduces significant uncertainty into an already volatile situation, with concerns mounting over potential escalation across the region. Reports indicate that Iran had contingency plans in place, which may involve the formation of a leadership council to manage state affairs.
Meanwhile, the conflict continues to intensify. Iranian media report that recent strikes targeted multiple provinces, resulting in significant casualties, while retaliatory attacks by Iran have triggered air defence responses in several countries hosting US military assets, including Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates.
In a further escalation, Trump signalled that military operations against Iran would continue, warning of sustained strikes “throughout the week or as long as necessary.”
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps also confirmed ongoing retaliatory operations against US and Israeli positions, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
Authorities say investigations and strategic responses are ongoing as tensions continue to rise across the Middle East.
(Tehran Times)