TEHRAN – Tensions in the Middle East have sharply increased following the reported killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint US and Israeli strikes. Iranian state media confirmed that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed during attacks on Tehran. A 40-day mourning period has been announced across the country.
The strikes were part of a large-scale military operation targeting Iranian military and nuclear facilities. Iranian officials said several senior commanders were also killed. Among the sites hit was the Natanz nuclear facility, according to Iran’s ambassador to the UN nuclear watchdog.
The US president said the operation aimed to remove security threats. He added that military action would continue if necessary. Israeli officials described the attack as a joint effort to weaken Iran’s military leadership.
After the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran formed a temporary leadership council. President Masoud Pezeshkian, the judiciary chief, and cleric Alireza Arafi are now handling leadership duties. Under Iran’s constitution, the Assembly of Experts will appoint a new supreme leader.
Iran responded with missile and drone strikes on Israeli cities and US bases in the region. Air raid sirens sounded across Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Several casualties were reported after missile impacts in residential areas.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps also claimed attacks on US military installations in the Gulf. Explosions were reported near bases in Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE. Some commercial airports and ports were temporarily closed due to security concerns.
The conflict has disrupted global markets. Oil prices surged amid fears of supply shortages. Shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz faced delays after security warnings.
The United Nations called for an emergency Security Council meeting. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged all sides to stop fighting immediately. France, Germany, and Britain signaled readiness to defend their regional interests if required.
Meanwhile, protests erupted in several countries after news of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death spread. Security has been tightened around US diplomatic missions in the region.
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The situation remains tense. Both sides have warned of further action. Global leaders are urging restraint to prevent a wider regional war.
