
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader since 1989, was killed in a joint US-Israeli airstrike targeting his Tehran compound on February 28, 2026. His death, confirmed by Iranian state media after initial denials, marks a significant turning point for Iran's theocratic regime. Khamenei ruled with an iron fist, suppressing protests and expanding Iran's regional influence. Following his death, Iran declared 40 days of mourning and formed a temporary leadership council while questions about succession and regional stability remain.
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