Iran has officially acknowledged that Ali Khamenei, the longtime Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, has died, state media and government announcements confirm. Iranian outlets including Tasnim News Agency and the semi-official Fars News Agency reported his passing following military strikes that struck leadership locations in Tehran, sparking intense regional tension and global attention.

According to the reports, Khamenei was killed while at his office on February 28, with state media later stating that he “attained martyrdom.” Iran declared an extended 40-day period of national mourning and seven days of public holiday, underscoring the profound impact of his death on the nation’s religious and political life.

The confirmation follows a period of conflicting messages in the hours after the strikes. Earlier claims by foreign officials about his death were met with initial denials from some Iranian sources, but the official acknowledgment now leaves little doubt about the leader’s fate.

Khamenei had served as Iran’s Supreme Leader since 1989, wielding significant influence over the country’s government, military decisions, and international posture. His death marks a rare and potentially transformative moment for Iran, with questions now centered on the succession process and how it may affect regional dynamics and ongoing conflicts.

Global responses continue to unfold as governments and analysts assess the implications of this historic development on Middle Eastern geopolitics and international relations.