Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei Killed in Joint U.S.-Israeli Airstrike
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader since 1989, was killed in a joint U.S.-Israeli airstrike, leading to regional unrest and international reactions.
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed on February 28, 2026, during a joint U.S.-Israeli airstrike on his compound in Tehran. Iranian state media confirmed his death, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape.
The attack also resulted in the deaths of several senior Iranian officials, including the head of the Revolutionary Guard and Khamenei's senior security adviser. In response, Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and U.S. bases in the region.
The operation had been planned for months amid rising tensions and followed stalled nuclear talks. Iran declared a 40-day mourning period and formed a temporary ruling council.
International reactions varied. Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the killing as a "cynical murder" that violated international law. Chinese officials also criticized the attack, calling it a serious violation of Iran's sovereignty.
In Pakistan, protests erupted, leading to violent clashes with police and paramilitary forces. At least nine people were killed, and 25 others were wounded in Karachi after protesters stormed the U.S. Consulate.
The situation has heightened fears of wider conflict in the Middle East, disrupting regional air traffic and oil shipments. Both Iran and the U.S. have signaled possible openness to dialogue, though threats of continued retaliation persist.