Iran Confirms Death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in Overnight Strikes

Iran has announced the death of its Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, following overnight strikes reportedly carried out by the United States and Israel.

According to Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, Khamenei was killed early Saturday morning at his office in Tehran while carrying out official duties.

Satellite imagery has since shown extensive damage to parts of the Leadership House compound in the Iranian capital, where Khamenei maintained his office.

Iran’s state-linked Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-affiliated Tasnim News Agency said the circumstances of his death refuted earlier claims that he had gone into hiding, describing such reports as “psychological warfare”.

The announcement was delivered across state television, with presenters visibly emotional as they confirmed the country would observe 40 days of mourning.

Attention is now expected to turn to the Assembly of Experts, the powerful clerical council responsible for appointing a successor.

Iran’s Red Crescent reported that more than 200 people were killed during the strikes.

In retaliation, Iran has launched attacks across parts of the Middle East, targeting areas hosting US forces and allied interests, including locations in Dubai, Doha, Bahrain and Kuwait.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Britain is participating in coordinated regional defensive operations aimed at protecting its citizens and partners.

US President Donald Trump described Khamenei as “one of the most evil people in history” and said his death represented a potential turning point for Iran’s future. He also indicated that military operations would continue, as explosions were still being reported across Tehran.

The situation has sparked division among US lawmakers, as the president cannot formally declare war without congressional approval. Meanwhile, the United Nations warned that the military escalation risks undermining regional stability.

Further strikes have continued, with US Central Command stating it is carrying out “swift and decisive action”, while the Israel Defense Forces confirmed a new wave of attacks targeting Iranian missile systems, defence infrastructure and command centres.

Explosions have continued to be heard across Tehran as tensions in the region intensify.