Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader for 36 years, died at age 86 on February 28, 2026, in coordinated US-Israeli airstrikes on his Tehran compound. Iranian state media, including IRIB, confirmed his “martyrdom” early Sunday, following initial US claims by President Donald Trump.
Strike Timeline
Tensions peaked after Iran’s missile attacks on Israel and US allies. Trump announced “major combat operations” for regime change, targeting 30+ officials. Israel struck first at dawn, hitting Khamenei’s residence with precision munitions; satellite images showed severe damage. US forces supported, calling it “Operation Epic Fury.” Khamenei’s remains were identified hours later.
Netanyahu hailed the “evil” leader’s end, vowing strikes until Iran’s people are free. Trump posted on Truth Social: Khamenei “could not evade U.S. intelligence.”
Iranian Response
Tehran launched retaliatory missiles at Israeli cities and US bases, causing casualties. Early denials from officials like Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei shifted to confirmation by morning. Protests erupted in Tehran amid crackdowns; thousands reported dead in prior unrest.
Succession Uncertainty
No successor named as of March 1, 2026. Iran’s Assembly of Experts eyes candidates: son Mojtaba Khamenei, Mohsen Araki, Hassan Khomeini, or hardliner Gholam Hossein Mohseni Ejei. Power vacuum risks instability; Revolutionary Guards may intervene.
Global markets dipped; oil prices surged 10%. Trump urged Iranians to “seize control.
