An Iranian state television anchor broke down in tears on air as he announced the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei following coordinated US and Israeli airstrikes on Tehran. Reading from an official statement, the presenter said: 'God is great. With deep sorrow, it is announced to the nation of Iran that Grand Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, was martyred today in a joint criminal attack by the United States and the Zionist regime.'
The statement described the 86-year-old Ayatollah as a revered Islamic figure whose 'long dream of martyrdom became true,' noting he was killed during the holy month of Ramadan. Partway through the broadcast, the anchor became visibly emotional, covering his mouth and lowering his head, eventually openly sobbing. Others could be heard crying off camera.
Iranian state media confirmed early Sunday that Khamenei had been killed in airstrikes targeting his compound in Tehran. According to the semi-official Tasnim news agency, he died in his office at home. Satellite images showed smoke rising from the site, and officials said his body was found under the rubble. Four family members and two senior military commanders were also reported killed.
The government announced a 40-day period of mourning and a seven-day national holiday. The statement read on air said that while Iranians were mourning, 'martyrdom will spark a massive uprising in the fight against oppressors.' US President Donald Trump had announced Khamenei's death hours earlier on Truth Social, calling him 'one of the most evil people in History' and urging Iranians to 'rise up.' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also urged them 'to flood the streets and finish the job.'
Crowds gathered overnight in parts of Tehran and other cities, with some mourning and others celebrating. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned it will attack Israel and US military bases in a 'devastating offensive operation.' Explosions were reported across the Middle East, including in Dubai.
