Iran’s Supreme Leader Killed in US-Israeli Strikes, Sparking Regional Retaliation
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader since 1989, was killed in coordinated US and Israeli airstrikes on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The attack has triggered a wave of retaliatory strikes from Iran across the Middle East, targeting Israel and US bases in Gulf states, resulting in casualties and widespread disruption.
Confirmation of Khamenei’s Death and Initial Reactions
Iranian state television confirmed Khamenei’s death early Sunday, February 29, 2026, hours after US President Donald Trump announced the killing, describing the 86-year-old cleric as “one of the most evil people in history.” NBC News reported that cheers were heard in Tehran following initial reports of Khamenei’s death, with plumes of smoke visible over the district where he resided.
Scale and Targets of the US-Israeli Offensive
The strikes, described as the most ambitious attack on Iran in decades, hit targets across the Islamic Republic, spanning 24 of Iran’s 31 provinces. BBC News reported significant damage to the Leadership House compound in Tehran, where Khamenei’s office was located. The attack also tragically resulted in civilian casualties, including at least 108 people killed in an explosion at a school in southern Iran, according to Iranian sources. CNN reported that over 100 girls were killed at an elementary school near a military base.
Iran’s Retaliatory Strikes and Regional Impact
In response to Khamenei’s death, Iran unleashed a barrage of missile and drone attacks across the Middle East. Targets included Israel, US military bases, and locations in the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain. At least two people were killed in Abu Dhabi, and one in Tel Aviv. Reuters reported strikes in Dubai, Doha, and Kuwait, with four people injured at Dubai International Airport. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards also announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for oil shipments.
Succession Crisis and Potential for Regime Change
Khamenei’s death has created a major succession crisis within Iran’s leadership. Many observers anticipate an increase in power for the Revolutionary Guards, who are deeply entrenched in the Iranian economy. NBC News reported that President Trump urged Iranians to “take back their country,” even as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on Iranians to overthrow the regime. Reza Pahlavi, son of the late Shah, hailed Khamenei’s death as signaling the end of the Islamic Republic.
International Response and Travel Advisories
The US State Department has warned Americans to reconsider travel to Bahrain and authorized the departure of non-emergency US government personnel and their families due to safety risks. CNN reported this increase in the travel advisory level came after the US and Israel launched military strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliatory attacks. The UN Security Council held an emergency session on Saturday, February 29, 2026, to address the escalating conflict.
Casualty Reports
As of Sunday, March 1, 2026, Iranian Red Crescent society reported at least 201 people killed in the strikes and over 700 wounded. BBC News reported that at least 120 people were injured in Israel.