Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has died after an airstrike hit his compound in central Tehran, Iranian state media reported early Sunday.
State television announced at 3 a.m. that the 86‑year‑old leader “became a martyr” and declared 40 days of national mourning. The broadcast said the strike also killed Khamenei’s daughter, son‑in‑law and granddaughter.
Iran’s cabinet issued a sharply worded statement condemning what it called a “great crime,” vowing that the killing “will not go unanswered.” A state TV presenter said Khamenei’s “vision and mission will not be lost” and would continue “with even greater resolve.”
U.S. President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social that Khamenei, whom he called “one of the most evil people in history,” was dead.
Khamenei had led the Islamic Republic since 1989 and held ultimate authority over the country’s political and military institutions. His death leaves Iran facing a period of uncertainty as officials prepare for a succession process.