On February 28, 2026, the conflict occurring in Iran only intensified after the targeted killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
This death is considered to be one of the most significant threats to the Iran Islamist regime, as Khamenei led Iran for more than three decades. Before Khamenei took leadership in 1989, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini was the first Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Khamenei took leadership after Khomeini’s death in June 1989.
After the U.S. and Israel hit thousands of targets inside Iran, on February 28, 2026, 86-year-old Supreme Leader was killed in his office this past Saturday. State media confirmed he was killed at his workplace. Khamenei’s daughter, son-in-law, grandson, and top security officials were also killed during the attacks.
Millions of Iranians are feeling lost, as they are currently leaderless. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared a martyr over Khalmenei, meaning there would be 40 days of mourning to follow the killing, which began on Sunday.
However, besides most civilians mourning the loss, there are some who are celebrating his death. People are dancing in the streets of Iran, screaming joyful celebrations, and even lighting off fireworks to celebrate the loss. Many civilians are feeling uncertain after celebrating, as the war is not over yet.
In the meantime, there is a three-person council, formed on Sunday, to hold power until a new leader can be appointed. While the strike is going on, there is no official time of when there will be a new leader initiated, as the future of the strike is unpredictable.
