Iran latest: Ayatollah Khamenei killed, Iranian state media confirms, as US and Israel launch new strikes
Iran Latest: Supreme Leader’s Death Confirmed Amid US-Israeli Strikes
Iranian state media confirmed the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei following overnight strikes. The attacks, part of “Operation Epic Fury,” targeted Iran’s leadership, prompting Tehran to retaliate with missile strikes on Israeli and American bases in the region. Updates continue as the situation evolves.
Leadership Transition and Mourning Period
Forty days of national mourning will be held in Iran after the supreme leader was killed at his Tehran office. Meanwhile, US Central Command reported additional strikes, with footage suggesting a second wave of attacks. The graphic below outlines Iran’s leadership structure, showing the confirmed deaths of Khamenei and General Mohammed Pakpour, though the status of his son remains uncertain.
Temporary Leadership and Statements from Officials
Ali Larijani, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, announced that a provisional leadership will be established. State outlet IRINN cited parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, who stated,
“The country is prepared for such moments and has plans in place for all scenarios, including the supreme leader’s passing.”
Qalibaf also warned,
“Filthy criminals Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu have crossed our red line and must pay the price.”
Regional Impact and Ongoing Attacks
Explosions were reported in Tehran on the morning following the strikes, with multiple blasts heard over the past hours. In the Middle East, intercepts over Jerusalem increased, and debris from an airborne missile sparked a small fire in Doha’s industrial zone. Our correspondent Sally Lockwood noted that loud blasts have persisted for two consecutive days in Dubai, where an overnight Iranian attack caused injuries at Dubai International Airport.
Global Reactions and Strategic Implications
Kaja Kallas, EU’s chief diplomat, called for an emergency video conference to address Iran and the escalating tensions in the region. She emphasized,
“Indiscriminate attacks by the Iranian regime threaten to draw the Middle East into a wider conflict, and we condemn such actions.”
Analyst Alan Eyre from the Middle East Institute suggested,
“Regime change appears unlikely, as no alternative institutions exist to replace the current government’s structure.”
He added,
“Even with potential collapse, the Islamic Republic’s power and stability may still endure.”
Unilateral Action and Regional Fallout
The US’s decision to strike Iran without seeking international backing or congressional approval has set a precedent for unilateral military intervention. This move, supported by Donald Trump, has raised concerns among global leaders, including Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping, who may face heightened vigilance. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on whether the strikes will lead to lasting shifts in the region’s power dynamics.
