Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Killed in US-Israeli Strikes, Iran Announces Mourning Period
TEHRAN, Iran – Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader for nearly four decades, has been killed in a strike carried out by the United States and Israel, Iranian state media confirmed Thursday. The death of Khamenei, who had ruled the Islamic Republic with an iron fist since 1989, marks a seismic shift in the region and ends his 36-year reign.
The attack targeted Khamenei’s office, according to reports. Following the announcement, celebrations have reportedly erupted in cities across Iran, though details remain limited.
Iran’s government has declared a 40-day mourning period. Simultaneously, the Revolutionary Guard has vowed retribution, initiating retaliatory strikes across the Gulf region, raising fears of a wider conflict.
The news has prompted strong reactions internationally, with emergency sessions convened at the United Nations Security Council and on Capitol Hill.
The death of Khamenei raises critical questions about the future leadership of Iran and the potential implications for global stability. The BBC Persian service and other international correspondents are providing ongoing analysis of the unfolding situation.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Image credit: Iranian supreme leader’s office handout/EPA/Shutterstock.
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