On February 28 and March 1, 2026, Iranian state media and several international news organizations confirmed that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader since 1989, had died following a coordinated military operation by the United States and Israel.
The strikes, part of a campaign dubbed “Operation Epic Fury” by the United States, targeted Iranian military infrastructure, missile sites, and leadership compounds across the country. Iranian officials declared 40 days of national mourning after officially confirming Khamenei’s death.
How the Attack Happened
According to global news agencies, A joint U.S.-Israeli aerial and missile campaign began on February 28, striking multiple targets, including Iranian air defense systems and command facilities.
President Donald Trump publicly announced on social media that the actions taken had “eliminated” Ali Khamenei and key figures in Iran’s leadership. U.S. and Israeli officials justified the operation as a means of deterring Iran’s missile and nuclear ambitions and putting pressure on the regime regarding its regional influence.
Casualties and Immediate Aftermath
In addition to Ali Khamenei’s death, reports indicate that several members of his family and Iranian officials were also killed in the attacks. There are also reports of civilian casualties, including children, although figures vary according to different sources. In response to the attacks, Iran has retaliated with missile and drone attacks on US military bases and allied targets across the Middle East, including the Gulf region.
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