Iran confirms Supreme Leader’s death; 40 days of national mourning announced
March 1, 2026: The Islamic Republic of Iran has officially confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, describing it as “martyrdom” following a high-intensity military strike in Tehran. The announcement was made early Sunday through the Supreme National Security Council and state broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting. According to official statements, the 86-year-old leader was at his downtown compound when it was targeted in what authorities called a joint operation by the United States and Israel during the holy month of Ramadan.
The government characterised his death as a “sublime martyrdom,” and the Cabinet issued a statement praising him as a champion of the Iranian nation and freedom-seekers worldwide. Scenes of grief unfolded across the country, particularly in Mashhad near the Imam Reza Shrine and in Tehran’s Enqelab Square, where mourners gathered holding portraits and chanting religious slogans. Authorities have declared 40 days of national mourning and a seven-day public holiday, while state television has suspended regular programming to air archival footage from Khamenei’s 36-year tenure.
Khamenei, who had led Iran since 1989, was the region’s longest-serving head of state and held ultimate authority over nuclear policy, military strategy and regional alliances. His death creates a significant leadership vacuum at a time of heightened confrontation with the United States and Israel. Under Iran’s constitution, the Assembly of Experts is tasked with appointing a successor, but the transition comes amid intense geopolitical volatility, placing the nation at a pivotal historical juncture.