Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has been officially confirmed dead by Iranian state media following massive joint airstrikes by the United States and Israel. The reports state that Khamenei was killed after his residence was hit with nearly 30 bombs during a targeted operation. Several members of his family, including his daughter, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, and grandson, were also reported dead. The announcement marks a historic and explosive turn in the Iran-US-Israel war.
Joint Operation Targets Tehran
The strikes reportedly took place late at night in Tehran while Khamenei was holding a high-level meeting with senior leaders and military officials. Iranian media said multiple top commanders also died in the blast. Israel had allegedly planned the operation for months and acted when key figures gathered in one location.
Even before Iran’s confirmation, US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly claimed that Khamenei had been eliminated. Trump stated that Khamenei could not escape advanced US intelligence systems. Netanyahu described the strike as a decisive move against a long-standing threat.
Iran Announces Mourning Period
Following the confirmation, Iran declared 40 days of national mourning and seven days of public holidays. Government offices lowered flags to half-mast. However, contrasting scenes emerged from parts of Tehran. Videos circulating online showed some citizens celebrating in the streets, lighting fireworks, and clapping from balconies. Analysts believe this reaction reflects deep internal divisions within Iran.
Who Will Be the Next Supreme Leader?
Khamenei’s death raises urgent questions about succession. Under Iran’s constitution, the Assembly of Experts selects the Supreme Leader. The process usually requires consensus among senior clerics. However, given the current crisis, how and when the body will convene remains unclear.
Names such as Mojtaba Khamenei and Hassan Khomeini had earlier surfaced in political discussions. Yet reports suggesting deaths within Khamenei’s family have added more uncertainty. The power structure may now shift depending on decisions made by the Assembly of Experts.
Role of the Revolutionary Guard
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is expected to play a major role during this transition. Reports indicate that senior IRGC commanders were also killed in the strikes. If true, this could weaken internal unity within the powerful force.
Iran warned that attacks will not stop. Trump stated that operations would continue until stability returns to the region. Netanyahu argued that the strikes aimed to block Iran’s nuclear ambitions and reduce security threats.
As the Middle East faces one of its most critical moments in decades, global leaders are watching closely. The death of Ali Khamenei has not only reshaped Iran’s political future but has also intensified tensions across the region.
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