Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s long-time Supreme Leader, has been killed in an attack carried out by Israel and the United States. The 86-year-old cleric had dominated Iranian politics for over three decades after seizing power in the Islamic Revolution of 1979. The attack occurred as black smoke billowed over Khamenei’s compound in Tehran, near the start of a joint military operation aimed at decimating Iran’s nuclear program.
Khamenei was known for his hardline stance against the US and Israel, accusing them of trying to undermine Iranian democracy. He had been a key figure in shaping Iran’s nuclear policy and had repeatedly threatened to enrich uranium despite international pressure to limit its nuclear program.
The attack is seen as a major blow to Iran’s leadership and raises questions about the country’s ability to withstand external threats. Khamenei’s death also comes at a time of heightened tensions between Iran and its regional rivals, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
As news of his death spread, Iranian state television confirmed that Khamenei was killed at his office in Tehran. President Donald Trump announced the death on social media, calling Khamenei “one of the most evil people in history.” The US-Israeli attack is seen as a significant escalation in the region’s proxy wars and raises concerns about the global security implications.
Khamenei had been a key figure in Iranian politics since the 1970s, playing a crucial role in shaping the country’s Islamic Revolution. He had served as president from 1981 to 1985 and again from 1989 to 1993 before being elected as Supreme Leader in 1989. Under his leadership, Iran became increasingly isolated on the world stage due to its hardline stance against Western powers.
Khamenei’s death marks a significant shift in Iranian politics, with many expecting a power struggle among the country’s hardline and reformist factions. The US-Israeli attack has also raised questions about the long-term implications for regional stability and global security.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/obituaries/2026/02/28/ayatollah-khamenei-dead-iran