U.S. and Israeli forces launched joint military strikes against targets in Iran over the weekend, hitting several cities including Tehran. Iranian state media and international sources confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in the attacks. Iran retaliated with missile strikes on Israeli and U.S. bases in the region. Following the event, Ahmad Vahidi has been appointed as the new Commander-in-Chief of the IRGC. The international community is closely monitoring the situation and Tehran’s response.
U.S.-Israel Joint Military Strikes Reported
U.S. and Israeli forces conducted joint military strikes against targets in Iran beginning February 28. The operations reportedly included strikes in several cities, with Israeli aircraft engaging targets in central Tehran.
Reports on the Death of Khamenei
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council issued a statement on March 1, confirming that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed during the military operations of February 28. The report has been cited by multiple Iranian and international media sources, including Xinhua News Agency.
Appointment of New IRGC Commander
Following the confirmation of Khamenei’s death, Ahmad Vahidi, a former defense minister, was named as the new Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). This appointment fills the position left vacant after the reported death of the former commander, Hossein Salami, in the strikes.
Iranian Retaliatory Measures Announced
The IRGC has stated that it launched retaliatory strikes against U.S. and Israeli military assets in the region, reportedly targeting several U.S. bases. Iranian authorities have also announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic, warning vessels against passage.
Interim Leadership Mechanism Activated
In line with constitutional provisions, a provisional leadership council—consisting of the President, the Head of the Judiciary, and a member of the Guardian Council—has been formed to temporarily perform the duties of the Supreme Leader.
Timeline Summary of Events:
- February 28: The U.S. and Israel initiated joint military operations. U.S. and Israeli officials announced that Supreme Leader Khamenei had been killed.
- Evening of February 28: Iranian state media initially described reports of the Supreme Leader’s death as “false rumors.”
- March 1: Iran’s Supreme National Security Council officially confirmed the death of Ayatollah Khamenei.
- March 1: Ahmad Vahidi was appointed as the new Commander-in-Chief of the IRGC.
- March 1–2: Iran conducted retaliatory military operations, with exchanges reported to be ongoing.
The situation represents a significant escalation in regional tensions, and developments continue to be monitored by the international community.