U.S. and Israel Confirm Death of Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei

U.S. and Israeli officials have confirmed the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter. The 85-year-old cleric, who had led Iran since 1989, passed away on February 28, 2026, after years of declining health.

The confirmation comes at a critical juncture for regional stability, as Iran faces ongoing tensions with Western powers over its nuclear program and support for proxy forces across the Middle East. Khamenei's death creates an immediate succession crisis within Iran's complex political structure, where ultimate authority rests with the Supreme Leader.

Background on Khamenei's leadership

Khamenei assumed power following the death of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Under his rule, Iran saw:

• Expansion of its ballistic missile program
• Development of nuclear capabilities
• Support for Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, and Houthi rebels in Yemen
• Crackdowns on domestic dissent, including the 2009 Green Movement and 2022-2023 protests
• Economic challenges from international sanctions

Succession implications

The Iranian constitution designates the Assembly of Experts to appoint a new Supreme Leader. However, the process is expected to be contentious, with potential candidates including:

• Ebrahim Raisi, Iran's current president
• Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader's son
• Other senior clerics from Qom

Regional and global reactions

Israeli officials have expressed cautious optimism about the development, viewing it as an opportunity to reshape regional dynamics. The U.S. State Department has called for stability during the transition period while maintaining pressure on Iran's nuclear program.

Economic impact

Iran's economy, already struggling under sanctions, faces additional uncertainty. Oil markets showed immediate volatility following the news, with Brent crude futures rising 3.2% in early trading.

What happens next

The coming weeks will be crucial as Iran's political establishment navigates the succession process. Key questions include:

• Will the new leadership maintain Khamenei's hardline policies?
• How will this affect Iran's nuclear negotiations with world powers?
• What impact will this have on Iran's relationships with Russia and China?

The death of Khamenei represents one of the most significant geopolitical events in the Middle East in recent years, potentially reshaping the region's power dynamics for decades to come.