*Photo:Ayatollah Ali Khamenei*
Iran’s government has declared 40 days of national mourning and seven public holidays following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Khamenei was killed on Saturday, February 28, 2026, during a joint U.S.-Israeli air military operation.
The attack targeted his compound and office in Tehran.
Along with the 86-year-old Supreme Leader, other top officials were reportedly killed, including the Defense Minister, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, and the head of the Revolutionary Guards. The Iranian Red Crescent reported over 200 total deaths and 700 injuries across the country.
U.S. President Donald Trump first announced the death on social media, which was later confirmed by Iranian state television.
Thousands have gathered in central Tehran, dressed in black and chanting slogans against the U.S. and Israel. Conversely, there have been reports of celebrations and “cheers from rooftops” in some neighborhoods following the news.
Iran has vowed “severe retaliation,” with reports already indicating missile and drone strikes launched against Israel and U.S. bases in the region, including sites in Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE.
An interim council, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, is currently overseeing the country as it begins its constitutional succession process.