Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei Killed in Joint U.S.-Israeli Airstrikes
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader since 1989, was killed in a joint U.S.-Israeli airstrike on Tehran, escalating regional tensions.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who led Iran as Supreme Leader since 1989, was killed at age 86 during a joint U.S.-Israeli airstrike on Tehran. The operation, codenamed "Operation Epic Fury" by the U.S. and "Operation Roaring Lion" by Israel, targeted Iranian military infrastructure and nuclear facilities.
Iranian state media confirmed Khamenei's death, reporting that he was killed in an Israeli strike conducted as part of the joint military operation. In response, Iran launched missile and drone attacks against Israel and Gulf states, causing casualties and disruptions.
The United Nations Security Council convened an emergency meeting to address the escalating conflict. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the escalation, expressing deep regret over the squandered opportunity for diplomacy.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed Khamenei's death, describing him as "one of the most evil people in history" and urging Iranians to "take over your government." The Iranian government declared a 40-day national mourning period and established a temporary leadership council to manage the transition.
The situation remains volatile, with concerns about further escalation and its impact on regional stability and global markets.