Iranian state media has confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint US-Israel airstrikes targeting key military and government facilities. The development marks a dramatic escalation in the ongoing regional conflict.
According to official reports, the aerial bombardment struck high-level defense installations, resulting in the deaths of several top Iranian leaders. Among those killed were Chief of Army Staff General Abdol Rahim Mousavi, Defense Minister General Aziz Nasirzadeh, Revolutionary Guard leadership figures, and senior security adviser Ali Shamkhani. Iranian state television reported that the attack targeted a meeting of the country’s defense council.
Authorities have declared a 40-day period of national mourning. Iranian media reported at least 201 fatalities and more than 700 injuries, with around 40 senior officials allegedly among the dead.
In retaliation, Iran reportedly launched strikes across parts of West Asia, with incidents reported in cities including Dubai, Doha, Manama, and Kuwait City—locations hosting US military bases or allied with Washington.
US President Donald Trump reacted on social media, stating that Khamenei’s death presents what he described as the “single greatest chance” for the Iranian people to reclaim their country. He added that “heavy and pinpoint bombing” operations would continue for the coming days or longer.
The strikes come amid heightened tensions following stalled nuclear negotiations and increased US naval deployments in the region. With military actions and retaliatory threats escalating rapidly, global leaders are closely monitoring the situation, fearing broader instability across the Middle East.
Further developments are awaited as the geopolitical crisis unfolds.
