Mourning and Protests Sweep Iran After Khamenei’s Death
Large demonstrations erupted across Iran on Sunday after authorities confirmed that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in joint military strikes by the United States and Israel.
The announcement sharply increased tensions in the Middle East and sparked an immediate public response nationwide.
Early Sunday, Iranian state television confirmed Khamenei’s death, describing it as martyrdom and honoring him as the leader of the Islamic Revolution. Shortly afterward, the government declared 40 days of national mourning and announced a seven-day public holiday.
Demonstrations Across Major Cities
As news spread, tens of thousands of people gathered in major cities to express grief and anger.
In Tehran, hundreds assembled in Enghelab Square. Protesters waved Iranian flags, carried posters of Khamenei and chanted slogans against the United States and Israel.
Meanwhile, in the religious city of Qom, crowds gathered at the shrine of Hazrat Masumeh to condemn the strikes.
In Mashhad, mourners placed a black flag over the dome of the Imam Reza Shrine, one of the country’s most respected religious landmarks. Many people wept openly in the surrounding area as they paid tribute.
Family Members Among the Dead
Officials reported that the strike targeted Khamenei while he was at his office in Tehran early Saturday.
State media stressed that he remained among the public at the time of the attack, rejecting claims that he had been hiding underground. Authorities described his presence at his office as consistent with his long-standing leadership role.
Iranian sources also confirmed that several of his family members died in the attack, including his daughter, son-in-law, grandson and daughter-in-law.
Civilian Casualties Reported
Beyond the leadership losses, the strikes caused significant civilian casualties.
The Iranian Red Crescent Society reported 201 deaths and 747 injuries linked to the attacks.
As mourning ceremonies continue and protests intensify, Iran faces a period of uncertainty marked by public grief and rising regional tension.
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