Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei Killed in U.S.-Israeli Military Strikes
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader since 1989, was killed at age 86 during joint U.S.-Israeli military strikes, leading to a 40-day national mourning period and a leadership transition.
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who led the nation since 1989, was killed on February 28, 2026, during coordinated military strikes by the United States and Israel. He was 86. Iranian state media confirmed his death, referring to him as a "martyr," and announced a 40-day period of national mourning.
The military operation, named "Operation Lion's Roar" by Israel, targeted multiple sites in Tehran and other Iranian cities. The offensive began in the early hours of February 28, with Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz describing it as a "pre-emptive attack" intended to "remove threats to the State of Israel."
In response to Khamenei's death, Iran's government established a temporary leadership council comprising President Masoud Pezeshkian, Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, and a member from the Guardian Council selected by the Expediency Council. This council will oversee the transition until the Assembly of Experts appoints a new supreme leader.
The joint U.S.-Israeli strikes have drawn international condemnation. Russia labeled the attacks as a "preplanned and unprovoked act of armed aggression" against a sovereign UN member state, warning of potential humanitarian and economic repercussions.
Domestically, Khamenei's death has led to widespread protests and unrest. Demonstrations erupted in various cities, with reports of confrontations between protesters and security forces. The situation remains volatile as the nation grapples with the sudden loss of its long-standing leader.