The United States and Israel launched a large-scale military attack on Iran late Saturday night, igniting a new wave of tension in the Middle East. Iranian state media reported that the airstrikes have caused over 200 deaths and confirmed that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the attack. The Iranian government immediately announced a 40-day national mourning period and implemented a one-week public holiday.
President Donald Trump stated that the purpose of this action was to “eliminate the imminent threat from the Iranian regime,” emphasizing that the move aims to protect the safety of the American people. As Iran launched retaliatory strikes, explosions were reported in multiple Middle Eastern cities, significantly increasing regional conflict risks.
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U.S. and Israel Launch Massive Attack; Iran Confirms Khamenei’s Death
On Saturday night, the U.S. and Israel carried out a joint military operation against Iran. Iranian state media indicated that the airstrikes have resulted in over 200 deaths, with casualty numbers still being tallied.
Iranian state-run media Press TV posted on social platform X confirming that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the attack, calling him a “martyr.” Another post announced a 40-day mourning period nationwide, along with a one-week public holiday to honor Iran’s highest leader.
Iran’s official news agency, Islamic Republic News Agency, also reported that Khamenei died in an Israeli airstrike. According to Fars News Agency’s Telegram post, Khamenei was at his official residence when the attack occurred, rather than at a presumed shelter location.
Trump: The Action Aimed to Eliminate the “Imminent Threat” from Iran
President Donald Trump issued a video statement saying that the goal of the U.S. operation was to “eliminate the imminent threat from the Iranian regime.” He described the Iranian regime as a “cruel and extremely dangerous group” and emphasized that the U.S. has a responsibility to protect its citizens.
The background of this military action relates to Iran’s refusal to comply with U.S. demands to reduce its nuclear program. Previously, the U.S. pressured Iran to scale back nuclear development, but received no positive response. Many analysts believe this deadlock ultimately triggered the joint military strike.
Iran Launches Retaliation; Explosions Reported in Jerusalem and Other Cities
Shortly after the airstrikes, Iran quickly launched retaliatory attacks on several Middle Eastern cities, including Jerusalem. Multiple explosions were reported, and the situation rapidly escalated.
While comprehensive casualty data is not yet available, regional security risks have clearly increased. Middle Eastern countries’ security agencies are on high alert, and markets are reacting immediately to the escalation.
If the conflict continues to expand, it could have profound impacts on global energy markets, financial systems, and the geopolitical landscape.
Media and Sanctions Background Behind Khamenei’s Death
It is noteworthy that the U.S. Treasury Department announced sanctions against Fars News Agency and Press TV in 2023. These sanctions stemmed from Iran’s suppression of protests following the death of Mahsa “Zhina” Amini in a Tehran hospital.
This move has placed Iran’s state media under long-term international political pressure, making their information releases subject to increased scrutiny and attention worldwide.
In the current situation, official media reports will continue to be a key reference for interpreting Iran’s political developments.
The joint U.S.-Israel attack on Iran and the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei mark a highly uncertain phase in Middle Eastern affairs. Iran’s subsequent retaliatory actions have raised the risk of escalation into a larger regional war.
All parties are still assessing military and political consequences. Future developments will depend on Iran’s succession arrangements, the extent of international diplomatic intervention, and whether the conflict further spreads.
This article, “US and Israel’s joint airstrike on Iran causes over 200 deaths! Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei is dead,” first appeared on Lian News ABMedia.