The death of Ali Khamenei is ‘historically significant’ but will not ‘automatically’ bring down Iran’s political system, Farah Pahlavi was quoted as saying to the news agency AFP on Tuesday (March 3). “The passing of a man, however central he may be to the architecture of power, does not automatically mean the end of a system,” said Pahlavi, who has lived in exile in Paris since being forced out during the 1979 revolution. “What will be decisive,” she said, was “the ability of the Iranian people to unite around a peaceful, orderly and sovereign transition to a state governed by the rule of law”, adding that her son Reza Pahlavi “is in the process of preparing”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-israel-war-dow-falls-2-2-as-geopolitical-fear-grip-us-markets-1772552287532">Iran-Israel war: Dow falls 2.2% as geopolitical fear grip US markets</a><h2>Reza Pahlavi urges unity from ethnic minorities</h2>Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last shah, urged national unity among the country’s ethnic minorities on Tuesday as war spread across the Middle East. Positioning himself as an alternative should the Islamic republic collapse, the US-based figure sought to rally support across Iran’s diverse population. In a post on X, Pahlavi aimed to reassure minorities that they would not face discrimination under his leadership and appeared to caution against using the current regional conflict to push for separatism.&nbsp;"We stand at the threshold of this regime's fall. Yet we must remain vigilant and prepared, and deny opportunistic forces, those who have long cast covetous eyes on Iran's soil, the chance to exploit this moment," he said. "You are an inseparable part of Iran's historical and cultural fabric... I am confident that you will remain steadfast in this covenant," he added. "I firmly believe that through national unity and shared resolve, a bright future awaits you and every Iranian."&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-democrats-trump-s-iran-war-without-approval-of-congress-1772554479773/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-democrats-trump-s-iran-war-without-approval-of-congress-1772554479773/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

'Iran will not 'automatically' fall after Khamenei's death': Farah Pahlavi

The death of Ali Khamenei is ‘historically significant’ but will not ‘automatically’ bring down Iran’s political system, Farah Pahlavi was quoted as saying to the news agency AFP on Tuesday (March 3). “The passing of a man, however central he may be to the architecture of power, does not automatically mean the end of a system,” said Pahlavi, who has lived in exile in Paris since being forced out during the 1979 revolution. “What will be decisive,” she said, was “the ability of the Iranian people to unite around a peaceful, orderly and sovereign transition to a state governed by the rule of law”, adding that her son Reza Pahlavi “is in the process of preparing”. Also Read: Iran-Israel war: Dow falls 2.2% as geopolitical fear grip US markets Reza Pahlavi urges unity from ethnic minorities Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last shah, urged national unity among the country’s ethnic minorities on Tuesday as war spread across the Middle East. Positioning himself as an alternative should the Islamic republic collapse, the US-based figure sought to rally support across Iran’s diverse population. In a post on X, Pahlavi aimed to reassure minorities that they would not face discrimination under his leadership and appeared to caution against using the current regional conflict to push for separatism. "We stand at the threshold of this regime's fall. Yet we must remain vigilant and prepared, and deny opportunistic forces, those who have long cast covetous eyes on Iran's soil, the chance to exploit this moment," he said. "You are an inseparable part of Iran's historical and cultural fabric... I am confident that you will remain steadfast in this covenant," he added. "I firmly believe that through national unity and shared resolve, a bright future awaits you and every Iranian." https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-democrats-trump-s-iran-war-without-approval-of-congress-1772554479773/embed Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Farah Pahlavi says Ali Khamenei’s death is historic but won’t automatically end Iran’s system; change depends on a united, lawful transition

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in his office on Saturday (February 28) during a coordinated military strike conducted by the United States and Israel, in what is being described as one of the most consequential escalations in the long-running hostility between Tehran and its rivals. Iran’s state broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) announced his death early on Sunday (March 1), declaring that the Supreme Leader had “reached martyrdom.” Khamenei, who held Iran’s highest authority for over three decades, had previously survived a dramatic assassination attempt years before assuming the role of Supreme Leader. The attack left him with lifelong physical damage that became closely associated with his public persona.&nbsp;On June 27, 1981, while serving as president during the Iran-Iraq War, Khamenei visited a mosque shortly after returning from the war front. After leading prayers and interacting with attendees, a man approached and placed a tape recorder on the desk in front of him. Witnesses described the individual as a young man with curly hair, a beard and a chequered coat. Roughly a minute after being set down, the device emitted a sharp whistling sound before detonating.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-entered-war-on-behalf-of-israel-iran-slams-rubio-s-justification-of-pre-emptive-attack-1772524933052">'US entered war on behalf of Israel': Iran slams Rubio's justification of 'pre-emptive attack'</a>&nbsp;Authorities later discovered a note hidden inside the recorder saying: “A gift of Furqan Group to the Islamic Republic.” The Furqan Group was known at the time for its opposition to Iran’s clerical establishment. The explosion left Khamenei severely wounded, causing extensive injuries to his right arm, vocal cords and lungs. Though he survived after months of medical care, his right arm was permanently paralysed.&nbsp;Undeterred, he pressed on with his political career. Reflecting his resilience, he once remarked that he did not require his hand as long as his mind and voice remained intact. He adapted by learning to write with his left hand and steadily consolidated influence within Iran’s political and religious hierarchy. In 1989, he rose to the position of Supreme Leader and went on to dominate Iran’s domestic and foreign policy for 35 years, becoming one of the most powerful and enduring figures in the country’s modern history.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-aws-sites-in-uae-bahrain-damaged-1772532903524/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-aws-sites-in-uae-bahrain-damaged-1772532903524/embed</a>&nbsp;Despite his authority, much about his private life remained shielded from public view. He is survived by his wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, and their six children. While reports suggest some extended family members reside abroad, his immediate household has largely stayed in Iran. According to Axios, the 86-year-old cleric ranked among the world’s longest-serving rulers. His death is likely to trigger uncertainty within Iran’s leadership structure and intensify pressure on the ruling establishment as tensions with Washington and Tel Aviv persist.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The secret beneath the robe: How the 1981 bombing paralysed Ali Khamenei’s right hand

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in his office on Saturday (February 28) during a coordinated military strike conducted by the United States and Israel, in what is being described as one of the most consequential escalations in the long-running hostility between Tehran and its rivals. Iran’s state broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) announced his death early on Sunday (March 1), declaring that the Supreme Leader had “reached martyrdom.” Khamenei, who held Iran’s highest authority for over three decades, had previously survived a dramatic assassination attempt years before assuming the role of Supreme Leader. The attack left him with lifelong physical damage that became closely associated with his public persona. On June 27, 1981, while serving as president during the Iran-Iraq War, Khamenei visited a mosque shortly after returning from the war front. After leading prayers and interacting with attendees, a man approached and placed a tape recorder on the desk in front of him. Witnesses described the individual as a young man with curly hair, a beard and a chequered coat. Roughly a minute after being set down, the device emitted a sharp whistling sound before detonating. Also Read: 'US entered war on behalf of Israel': Iran slams Rubio's justification of 'pre-emptive attack' Authorities later discovered a note hidden inside the recorder saying: “A gift of Furqan Group to the Islamic Republic.” The Furqan Group was known at the time for its opposition to Iran’s clerical establishment. The explosion left Khamenei severely wounded, causing extensive injuries to his right arm, vocal cords and lungs. Though he survived after months of medical care, his right arm was permanently paralysed. Undeterred, he pressed on with his political career. Reflecting his resilience, he once remarked that he did not require his hand as long as his mind and voice remained intact. He adapted by learning to write with his left hand and steadily consolidated influence within Iran’s political and religious hierarchy. In 1989, he rose to the position of Supreme Leader and went on to dominate Iran’s domestic and foreign policy for 35 years, becoming one of the most powerful and enduring figures in the country’s modern history. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-aws-sites-in-uae-bahrain-damaged-1772532903524/embed Despite his authority, much about his private life remained shielded from public view. He is survived by his wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, and their six children. While reports suggest some extended family members reside abroad, his immediate household has largely stayed in Iran. According to Axios, the 86-year-old cleric ranked among the world’s longest-serving rulers. His death is likely to trigger uncertainty within Iran’s leadership structure and intensify pressure on the ruling establishment as tensions with Washington and Tel Aviv persist. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Long before leading Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei survived a 1981 bomb attack that left his right arm permanently paralysed

Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, wife for deceased Iranian supreme leader, Ali Khamenei has died after she was injured during the joint US-Israel air strike, Iranian state media reported on Monday (March 2). Iran’s state broadcaster, Press TV, reported on Monday that she had “attained martyrdom” following the attack. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei himself was killed during the US and Israeli strikes on Saturday (February 28).<h2>Know all about Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's family. Who all are in his family and what are their names</h2>Khamenei had six children, four sons, Mostafa, Mojtaba, Masoud, and Meysam, and two daughters, Boshra and Hoda. While these are widely recognised as his children, international media has occasionally questioned their identities. Unlike many political families around the world, Khamenei’s children rarely appeared in public or took on visible political roles. Among them, Mojtaba Khamenei was the most prominent in political discussions. Analysts often described him as the most influential sibling, viewed either as a potential successor or a powerful figure behind the scenes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mojtaba strengthened his political ties by marrying the daughter of prominent politician Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel. Over the years, he reportedly maintained close connections with the Revolutionary Guard and senior clerical networks, with some accounts suggesting he fought in the Iran-Iraq War during his youth. Following Khamenei’s death in the US-Israel strikes, Alireza Arafi was appointed to Iran's leadership council, though unconfirmed reports indicate he may have also been targeted in subsequent attacks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-was-buying-time-to-restock-their-missile-and-to-strike-our-forces-pete-hegseth-s-big-claim-1772455763669">'Iran was buying time to restock their missile and to strike our forces', Pete Hegseth's BIG claim</a>&nbsp;Masoud Khamenei, another son, married into a politically connected family reportedly linked to Mohsen Kharazi, but he kept a much lower profile. The other children largely stayed out of public life. Khamenei had three brothers, including Mohammad and Hadi, and four sisters, one of whom, Badri, reportedly went into exile during the political upheavals of the 1980s. The airstrikes reportedly claimed the lives of multiple family members along with Khamenei, including a daughter, a grandchild, a daughter-in-law, and a son-in-law.&nbsp;&nbsp;While their names have not been officially released, several generations were reportedly lost in a single strike. Khamenei had seven grandchildren in total, with very little known publicly about them; the name Mohammad Bagher Khamenei has occasionally appeared in official records.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/f-15-warplanes-crashed-first-confirmation-by-us-1772459074315/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/f-15-warplanes-crashed-first-confirmation-by-us-1772459074315/embed</a>&nbsp;Beyond the political ramifications, the deaths underline the personal tragedy behind the headlines. The loss of multiple family members in one strike adds a profound layer of grief amid the broader conflict.<h2>Who was Khamenei's wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh?</h2>Khamenei’s wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, remained largely out of the public eye. Born in 1947 to a respected merchant family, she married Khamenei in 1964. Her father, Mohammad Esmaeil Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, was a successful businessman. She quietly supported Khamenei through decades of political turbulence, including his detention under the Shah before the 1979 revolution, and did not take on any formal public role. Like much of the family, her life unfolded away from cameras and public attention.

Israel-Iran war: Khamenei's wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, dies after suffering injuries in air strike. Who was she?

Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, wife for deceased Iranian supreme leader, Ali Khamenei has died after she was injured during the joint US-Israel air strike, Iranian state media reported on Monday (March 2). Iran’s state broadcaster, Press TV, reported on Monday that she had “attained martyrdom” following the attack. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei himself was killed during the US and Israeli strikes on Saturday (February 28). Know all about Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's family. Who all are in his family and what are their names Khamenei had six children, four sons, Mostafa, Mojtaba, Masoud, and Meysam, and two daughters, Boshra and Hoda. While these are widely recognised as his children, international media has occasionally questioned their identities. Unlike many political families around the world, Khamenei’s children rarely appeared in public or took on visible political roles. Among them, Mojtaba Khamenei was the most prominent in political discussions. Analysts often described him as the most influential sibling, viewed either as a potential successor or a powerful figure behind the scenes. Mojtaba strengthened his political ties by marrying the daughter of prominent politician Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel. Over the years, he reportedly maintained close connections with the Revolutionary Guard and senior clerical networks, with some accounts suggesting he fought in the Iran-Iraq War during his youth. Following Khamenei’s death in the US-Israel strikes, Alireza Arafi was appointed to Iran's leadership council, though unconfirmed reports indicate he may have also been targeted in subsequent attacks. Also Read: 'Iran was buying time to restock their missile and to strike our forces', Pete Hegseth's BIG claim Masoud Khamenei, another son, married into a politically connected family reportedly linked to Mohsen Kharazi, but he kept a much lower profile. The other children largely stayed out of public life. Khamenei had three brothers, including Mohammad and Hadi, and four sisters, one of whom, Badri, reportedly went into exile during the political upheavals of the 1980s. The airstrikes reportedly claimed the lives of multiple family members along with Khamenei, including a daughter, a grandchild, a daughter-in-law, and a son-in-law. While their names have not been officially released, several generations were reportedly lost in a single strike. Khamenei had seven grandchildren in total, with very little known publicly about them; the name Mohammad Bagher Khamenei has occasionally appeared in official records. https://www.wionews.com/videos/f-15-warplanes-crashed-first-confirmation-by-us-1772459074315/embed Beyond the political ramifications, the deaths underline the personal tragedy behind the headlines. The loss of multiple family members in one strike adds a profound layer of grief amid the broader conflict. Who was Khamenei's wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh? Khamenei’s wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, remained largely out of the public eye. Born in 1947 to a respected merchant family, she married Khamenei in 1964. Her father, Mohammad Esmaeil Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, was a successful businessman. She quietly supported Khamenei through decades of political turbulence, including his detention under the Shah before the 1979 revolution, and did not take on any formal public role. Like much of the family, her life unfolded away from cameras and public attention.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in a joint US–Israeli airstrike, Iranian state media confirmed on Sunday (March 1)

Senior Israeli officials have claimed that Ali Khamenei is dead and that his body has been found, according to sources cited by the networks. Multiple Israeli media outlets, quoting unnamed officials, echoed the assertion that Iran’s Supreme Leader has died. Two Israeli television networks reported that a photograph of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, had been presented to US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.&nbsp;“A photo of the body was shown to Netanyahu and Trump,” reported Channel 12. “Senior Israeli officials were informed of Khamenei's elimination. His body was recovered from the rubble of his compound,” public broadcaster Kan reported. However, there has been no official confirmation from Tehran regarding Khamenei’s death.<h2>What happens after the Supreme Leader’s death</h2>Iran’s constitution, Article 111, entails provisions for succession of the Supreme Leader in the event of the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to the constitution, a temporary provisional council consisting of the President (Masoud Pezeshkian), the Chief Justice (Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei), and a cleric from the Guardian Council immediately assumes its duties.&nbsp;Article 111 of the constitution was written in anticipation of the unthinkable, the sudden loss of the Supreme Leader, the single figure around whom the political and religious architecture of the Islamic Republic ultimately rests. The provision is explicit in its intent to prevent paralysis. It states: “Whenever the Leader becomes incapable of fulfilling his constitutional duties, a council consisting of the President, the Head of the Judiciary, and one of the jurisprudents of the Guardian Council… shall temporarily assume all the duties of the Leader.”&nbsp;The Assembly of Experts, made up of 88 clerics, must meet “within the shortest possible time” to elect a permanent successor. A candidate needs at least 59 votes to win.<h2>The Frontrunners for Supreme Leader&nbsp;</h2>With the 2024 death of Ebrahim Raisi, the list of potential successors has narrowed:&nbsp;Mojtaba Khamenei: The Supreme Leader’s second son. He is a powerful "shadow" figure with deep ties to the IRGC and the intelligence apparatus. However, a hereditary succession would contradict the Republic's anti-monarchy foundations.&nbsp;Ali Larijani: A veteran powerbroker and current head of the Supreme National Security Council. He has reportedly emerged as the regime's "crisis manager" during the current conflict.&nbsp;Alireza Arafi: A high-ranking cleric and deputy chair of the Assembly of Experts, often seen as a "bridge" between the clerical establishment and the military.&nbsp;However, many experts believe that in the event of war, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) might bypass the clerical process to prevent a “decapitation” of the state.&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

According to the constitution, a temporary provisional council consisting of the President (Masoud Pezeshkian), the Chief Justice (Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei), and a cleric from the Guardian Council immediately assumes its duties.

Senior Israeli officials have claimed that Ali Khamenei is dead and that his body has been found, according to sources cited by the networks. Multiple Israeli media outlets, quoting unnamed officials, echoed the assertion that Iran’s Supreme Leader has died. Two Israeli television networks reported that a photograph of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, had been presented to US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “A photo of the body was shown to Netanyahu and Trump,” reported Channel 12. “Senior Israeli officials were informed of Khamenei's elimination. His body was recovered from the rubble of his compound,” public broadcaster Kan reported. However, there has been no official confirmation from Tehran regarding Khamenei’s death. What happens after the Supreme Leader’s death Iran’s constitution, Article 111, entails provisions for succession of the Supreme Leader in the event of the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to the constitution, a temporary provisional council consisting of the President (Masoud Pezeshkian), the Chief Justice (Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei), and a cleric from the Guardian Council immediately assumes its duties. Article 111 of the constitution was written in anticipation of the unthinkable, the sudden loss of the Supreme Leader, the single figure around whom the political and religious architecture of the Islamic Republic ultimately rests. The provision is explicit in its intent to prevent paralysis. It states: “Whenever the Leader becomes incapable of fulfilling his constitutional duties, a council consisting of the President, the Head of the Judiciary, and one of the jurisprudents of the Guardian Council… shall temporarily assume all the duties of the Leader.” The Assembly of Experts, made up of 88 clerics, must meet “within the shortest possible time” to elect a permanent successor. A candidate needs at least 59 votes to win. The Frontrunners for Supreme Leader With the 2024 death of Ebrahim Raisi, the list of potential successors has narrowed: Mojtaba Khamenei: The Supreme Leader’s second son. He is a powerful "shadow" figure with deep ties to the IRGC and the intelligence apparatus. However, a hereditary succession would contradict the Republic's anti-monarchy foundations. Ali Larijani: A veteran powerbroker and current head of the Supreme National Security Council. He has reportedly emerged as the regime's "crisis manager" during the current conflict. Alireza Arafi: A high-ranking cleric and deputy chair of the Assembly of Experts, often seen as a "bridge" between the clerical establishment and the military. However, many experts believe that in the event of war, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) might bypass the clerical process to prevent a “decapitation” of the state. (Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.)

According to the constitution, a temporary provisional council consisting of the President (Masoud Pezeshkian), the Chief Justice (Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei), and a cleric from the Guardian Council immediately assumes its duties.

After Israeli claims of Khamenei’s death, here are three contenders for Supreme Leader of Iran

Senior Israeli officials have claimed that Khamenei is dead and that his body has been found, according to sources cited by the networks. Multiple Israeli media outlets, quoting unnamed officials, echoed the assertion that Iran’s Supreme Leader has died. Two Israeli television networks reported that a photograph of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, had been presented to US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "A photo of the body was shown to Netanyahu and Trump," reported Channel 12. "Senior Israeli officials were informed of Khamenei's elimination. His body was recovered from the rubble of his compound," reported public broadcaster Kan. There has been no official confirmation from Tehran regarding Khamenei’s death.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-israel-attack-iran-there-are-signs-that-khamenei-is-dead-claims-israeli-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-1772305389759">US-Israel attack Iran: 'There are signs that Khamenei is dead', claims Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;Witnesses in Tehran said loud cheers were heard in several neighborhoods, with residents stepping onto balconies to clap and play celebratory music following reports of Khamenei’s death. According to multiple witnesses and audio recordings, the celebrations began shortly after 11 pm (1930 GMT). After Channel 12 reported that Khamenei had been among the senior Iranian officials targeted in US and Israeli strikes, his top aide, Ali Larijani, issued a statement on his X account, pledging retaliation.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-attacks-iran-israel-claims-khamenei-dead-after-strikes-on-tehran-1772309684935/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-attacks-iran-israel-claims-khamenei-dead-after-strikes-on-tehran-1772309684935/embed</a>&nbsp;An Israeli official said Khamenei had been killed in Israel’s initial strikes earlier in the day, and that Netanyahu had been shown a photograph of his body recovered from the compound. “We will make the Zionist criminals and the shameless Americans regret their actions. The brave soldiers and the great nation of Iran will deliver an unforgettable lesson to the hellish international oppressors,” Larijani posted on X. Khamenei had reportedly established detailed contingency plans for succession and emergency command structures if he or other senior leaders were killed in possible US or Israeli attacks, appointing longtime loyalist Larijani to oversee crisis management.<h2>Watch the video of joy in Tehran</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Joy and celebration in Tehran. <a href="https://t.co/IGfv3ku0YO">pic.twitter.com/IGfv3ku0YO</a>&mdash; The Truth Hurts (@hurts9104) <a href="https://twitter.com/hurts9104/status/2027838663250317736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Khamenei DEAD, body has been found, claims senior Israeli official

Senior Israeli officials have claimed that Khamenei is dead and that his body has been found, according to sources cited by the networks. Multiple Israeli media outlets, quoting unnamed officials, echoed the assertion that Iran’s Supreme Leader has died. Two Israeli television networks reported that a photograph of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, had been presented to US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "A photo of the body was shown to Netanyahu and Trump," reported Channel 12. "Senior Israeli officials were informed of Khamenei's elimination. His body was recovered from the rubble of his compound," reported public broadcaster Kan. There has been no official confirmation from Tehran regarding Khamenei’s death. Also Read: US-Israel attack Iran: 'There are signs that Khamenei is dead', claims Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Witnesses in Tehran said loud cheers were heard in several neighborhoods, with residents stepping onto balconies to clap and play celebratory music following reports of Khamenei’s death. According to multiple witnesses and audio recordings, the celebrations began shortly after 11 pm (1930 GMT). After Channel 12 reported that Khamenei had been among the senior Iranian officials targeted in US and Israeli strikes, his top aide, Ali Larijani, issued a statement on his X account, pledging retaliation. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-attacks-iran-israel-claims-khamenei-dead-after-strikes-on-tehran-1772309684935/embed An Israeli official said Khamenei had been killed in Israel’s initial strikes earlier in the day, and that Netanyahu had been shown a photograph of his body recovered from the compound. “We will make the Zionist criminals and the shameless Americans regret their actions. The brave soldiers and the great nation of Iran will deliver an unforgettable lesson to the hellish international oppressors,” Larijani posted on X. Khamenei had reportedly established detailed contingency plans for succession and emergency command structures if he or other senior leaders were killed in possible US or Israeli attacks, appointing longtime loyalist Larijani to oversee crisis management. Watch the video of joy in Tehran

Israeli TV reports photos of Khamenei’s body shown to Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu, claiming Iran’s supreme leader is dead, per unnamed officials

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is ‘expecting to be a martyr’ in the event of a US attack on the Islamic Republic, and has made transition arrangements for the regime's survival, assigning some key officials to possibly make a deal with the Trump administration eventually. For this task, he has selected a group of insiders, the most prominent of them being Ali Larijani, the veteran politician currently heading the Supreme National Security Council, according to a report in the New York Times that cited both experts and Iran’s political and military insiders. Larijani, who was the main Iranian negotiator on the nuclear deal with the West, could be the main person, or one of the key people, who could make a deal with Trump to ensure the regime’s survival and transition.<h2>Who is Ali Larijani?</h2>Ali Larijani is at the forefront of plans to manage Iran during a potential war with the US. Following the 12-day war with Israel in June 2025, Khamenei appointed Larijani as the secretary of the National Security Council and created a new National Defence Council, headed by Adm. Ali Shamkhani, to manage military affairs during wartime.Larijani is a 67-year-old veteran politician hailing from a political and religious family. The top national security official has effectively been running the country, according to the report, and was assigned by Khamenei to ensure that Iran endures military attacks and targeted killings.Larijani, a former commander in the Revolutionary Guards Corps, was in charge of crushing the recent protests demanding the end of Islamic rule.Amid recent tensions, he has been engaging in diplomatic parleys with Russia, Qatar and Oman, even as he oversees nuclear negotiations with the US.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/-us-iran-tensions-inside-iran-s-opening-salvo-strategy-1771770564370/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/-us-iran-tensions-inside-iran-s-opening-salvo-strategy-1771770564370/embed</a><h2>Succession: What is Ali Khamenei doing for the transition of power?</h2>According to the report, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is operating on the basis that US military strikes are inevitable and imminent.He has been distributing power and preparing the state for both succession and war, aware that succession may come as a consequence of war.In a series of directives, Khamenei named four layers of succession for each of the military command and government roles that he personally appoints, the NYT report said.“He told everyone in leadership roles to name up to four replacements and delegated responsibilities to a tight circle of confidants to make decisions in case communications with him are disrupted or he is killed,” the report added.Larijani and associates would ensure that the Islamic Republic survives not only American and Israeli bombs, but also any assassination attempts on its top leadership, including on Khamenei himself, according to the report.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/will-trump-attack-iran-in-first-week-of-march-here-s-what-we-know-1771727917516">Will Trump attack Iran in first week of March? Here's what we know</a><h2>Who are in Khamenei’s trusted circle?</h2>Other than Larijani, the supreme leader’s inner circles include former commander-in-chief of the Iran Guards, Maj Gen Yahya Rahim Safavi, and Parliament Speaker Brig Gen Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who would be the de facto deputy to command the armed forces during war, and his chief of staff, the cleric Ali Asghar Hejazi.Vali Nasr, an expert on Iran at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, said Khamenei “is expecting to be a martyr and thinking, this is my system and legacy, and I will stand until the end”. He is distributing power and preparing the state for the next big thing, both succession and war, aware that succession may come as a consequence of war, Nasr told NYT.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iran-preparing-for-war-with-israel-and-us-irgc-takes-over-hezbollah-amid-escalating-tensions-what-this-means-1771746085884">Iran preparing for war with Israel and US? IRGC takes over Hezbollah amid escalating tensions - What this means</a><h2>Who will make a deal with the US if the regime falls?</h2>In case of a Venezuela-like situation in which the vice-president made a deal with the US after the ouster of Nicolas Maduro, Larijani would be the top official to negotiate such a deal for Iran.He is followed by General Ghalibaf, the Parliament Speaker, and Hassan Rouhani, a former president. The current president of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, is largely sidelined and resigned to his fate, according to the report. &nbsp;

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is preparing Iran for possible US strikes, naming succession layers in case he is martyred. He is empowering Ali Larijani to ensure regime survival and potentially negotiate a deal with Washington. What else is inside the succession plan?

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is ‘expecting to be a martyr’ in the event of a US attack on the Islamic Republic, and has made transition arrangements for the regime's survival, assigning some key officials to possibly make a deal with the Trump administration eventually. For this task, he has selected a group of insiders, the most prominent of them being Ali Larijani, the veteran politician currently heading the Supreme National Security Council, according to a report in the New York Times that cited both experts and Iran’s political and military insiders. Larijani, who was the main Iranian negotiator on the nuclear deal with the West, could be the main person, or one of the key people, who could make a deal with Trump to ensure the regime’s survival and transition. Who is Ali Larijani? Ali Larijani is at the forefront of plans to manage Iran during a potential war with the US. Following the 12-day war with Israel in June 2025, Khamenei appointed Larijani as the secretary of the National Security Council and created a new National Defence Council, headed by Adm. Ali Shamkhani, to manage military affairs during wartime. Larijani is a 67-year-old veteran politician hailing from a political and religious family. The top national security official has effectively been running the country, according to the report, and was assigned by Khamenei to ensure that Iran endures military attacks and targeted killings. Larijani, a former commander in the Revolutionary Guards Corps, was in charge of crushing the recent protests demanding the end of Islamic rule. Amid recent tensions, he has been engaging in diplomatic parleys with Russia, Qatar and Oman, even as he oversees nuclear negotiations with the US. https://www.wionews.com/videos/-us-iran-tensions-inside-iran-s-opening-salvo-strategy-1771770564370/embed Succession: What is Ali Khamenei doing for the transition of power? According to the report, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is operating on the basis that US military strikes are inevitable and imminent. He has been distributing power and preparing the state for both succession and war, aware that succession may come as a consequence of war. In a series of directives, Khamenei named four layers of succession for each of the military command and government roles that he personally appoints, the NYT report said. “He told everyone in leadership roles to name up to four replacements and delegated responsibilities to a tight circle of confidants to make decisions in case communications with him are disrupted or he is killed,” the report added. Larijani and associates would ensure that the Islamic Republic survives not only American and Israeli bombs, but also any assassination attempts on its top leadership, including on Khamenei himself, according to the report. Also read: Will Trump attack Iran in first week of March? Here's what we know Who are in Khamenei’s trusted circle? Other than Larijani, the supreme leader’s inner circles include former commander-in-chief of the Iran Guards, Maj Gen Yahya Rahim Safavi, and Parliament Speaker Brig Gen Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who would be the de facto deputy to command the armed forces during war, and his chief of staff, the cleric Ali Asghar Hejazi. Vali Nasr, an expert on Iran at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, said Khamenei “is expecting to be a martyr and thinking, this is my system and legacy, and I will stand until the end”. He is distributing power and preparing the state for the next big thing, both succession and war, aware that succession may come as a consequence of war, Nasr told NYT. Also read: Iran preparing for war with Israel and US? IRGC takes over Hezbollah amid escalating tensions - What this means Who will make a deal with the US if the regime falls? In case of a Venezuela-like situation in which the vice-president made a deal with the US after the ouster of Nicolas Maduro, Larijani would be the top official to negotiate such a deal for Iran. He is followed by General Ghalibaf, the Parliament Speaker, and Hassan Rouhani, a former president. The current president of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, is largely sidelined and resigned to his fate, according to the report.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is preparing Iran for possible US strikes, naming succession layers in case he is martyred. He is empowering Ali Larijani to ensure regime survival and potentially negotiate a deal with Washington. What else is inside the succession plan?

‘Expecting to be a martyr’, Iran Supreme Leader Khamenei has made a transition plan if US attacks. And this man could be the dealmaker

US' dual‑carrier deployment is part of a broader military build‑up ordered by US President Donald Trump amid stalled negotiations over Iran’s nuclear enrichment and mounting strategic pressure.

Strikes or extended campaign? What will be Trump’s next move as USS Gerald R. Ford set to join USS Abraham Lincoln in Middle East

US President Donald Trump on Friday (February 20) called on Iran’s leadership to enter negotiations for what he described as a “fair deal,” while sharply condemning the government’s human rights record and voicing concern for its citizens. Speaking at the White House, Trump drew a distinction between Iran’s rulers and its population, saying the Iranian people were enduring severe hardship. He referenced what he described as a deadly crackdown, claiming that 32,000 individuals had been killed in a short span of time, the first occasion on which he cited a specific figure.&nbsp;Trump also alleged that Iranian authorities had planned to execute hundreds of detainees, describing public hangings carried out by crane. He said he warned Tehran that any execution would trigger an immediate response from the United States. According to Trump, after his warning, Iran abandoned plans to execute 837 prisoners. “They didn’t hang them,” he said, adding that he had been told no executions ultimately took place.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-absolutely-ashamed-of-certain-members-of-court-trump-lashes-out-at-supreme-court-over-tariff-decision-1771612420264">Trump announces new 10% global tariff; says ‘absolutely ashamed’ of US Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Trump hinted he was weighing the possibility of a limited military strike as leverage to push Iran toward negotiations, though he did not elaborate on what such action might involve. Reiterating his sympathy for ordinary Iranians, Trump said they had been forced to live under extremely harsh conditions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/asim-munir-abandons-pakistan-army-soldiers-kidnapped-by-bla-1771607681128/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/asim-munir-abandons-pakistan-army-soldiers-kidnapped-by-bla-1771607681128/embed</a>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump on Thursday (February 19) warned Iran that it has 10 to 15 days to reach what he described as a “meaningful deal” or face serious repercussions, raising the prospect of military action in the Middle East. In response, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the president of the Security Council warning that any strike on Iran would render US bases, facilities and other assets “legitimate targets.”&nbsp;Amid the escalating war of words, US military deployments in the region have reportedly increased, with American forces said to be prepared for possible action as early as this weekend. The United States has also moved the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group closer to Iranian waters, signaling heightened readiness as tensions intensify.

US President Donald Trump urges Iran to negotiate a “fair deal,” warned against executions, criticised Tehran’s crackdown, and hinted at possible military action

US President Donald Trump on Friday (February 20) called on Iran’s leadership to enter negotiations for what he described as a “fair deal,” while sharply condemning the government’s human rights record and voicing concern for its citizens. Speaking at the White House, Trump drew a distinction between Iran’s rulers and its population, saying the Iranian people were enduring severe hardship. He referenced what he described as a deadly crackdown, claiming that 32,000 individuals had been killed in a short span of time, the first occasion on which he cited a specific figure. Trump also alleged that Iranian authorities had planned to execute hundreds of detainees, describing public hangings carried out by crane. He said he warned Tehran that any execution would trigger an immediate response from the United States. According to Trump, after his warning, Iran abandoned plans to execute 837 prisoners. “They didn’t hang them,” he said, adding that he had been told no executions ultimately took place. Also Read: Trump announces new 10% global tariff; says ‘absolutely ashamed’ of US Supreme Court Earlier in the day, Trump hinted he was weighing the possibility of a limited military strike as leverage to push Iran toward negotiations, though he did not elaborate on what such action might involve. Reiterating his sympathy for ordinary Iranians, Trump said they had been forced to live under extremely harsh conditions. https://www.wionews.com/videos/asim-munir-abandons-pakistan-army-soldiers-kidnapped-by-bla-1771607681128/embed US President Donald Trump on Thursday (February 19) warned Iran that it has 10 to 15 days to reach what he described as a “meaningful deal” or face serious repercussions, raising the prospect of military action in the Middle East. In response, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the president of the Security Council warning that any strike on Iran would render US bases, facilities and other assets “legitimate targets.” Amid the escalating war of words, US military deployments in the region have reportedly increased, with American forces said to be prepared for possible action as early as this weekend. The United States has also moved the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group closer to Iranian waters, signaling heightened readiness as tensions intensify.

US President Donald Trump urges Iran to negotiate a “fair deal,” warned against executions, criticised Tehran’s crackdown, and hinted at possible military action

'32,000 people were killed during crackdown in Iran', says Donald Trump

Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi said Iran could agree to dilute highly enriched uranium while refusing zero enrichment, emphasising economic incentives for both sides.

Sanctions on land, aircraft carriers at sea: How US is pushing Iran to the brink

US Senator Lindsey Graham compared Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei to Adolf Hitler, calling the regime “religious Nazis” and warning that failure to confront Tehran would undermine US credibility.

'Hitler wanted master race. They want master religion': US Senator Lindsey Graham compares Khamenei with Nazis

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warnof a "regional war" if the United States attacked following heavy military deployments by Washington in the Gulf.
Supreme leader says Washington knows that conflict would spread, Iranians not afraid; in tit-for-tat, Tehran’s parliament designates European armies as terrorist organizations.

In Direct Threat, Khamenei Warns of Regional War if US Attacks Iran | Trump Pushes for Talks

 Iran’s currency has lost roughly 20,000 times its value since 1979 due to US sanctions, political turmoil, and economic mismanagement. The rial fell from 70 per USD to over 1.4 million.

Why has Iran’s rial lost about 20,000× of its value since 1979?

The US Special Forces and Iran's elite units possess vastly different strengths. While American units like the Navy SEALs hold a clear advantage in technology, budget, and firepower, Iran's Quds Force excels in asymmetric warfare and proxy networks. 

Who would win? Comparing the special forces of the US and Iran in case of a war

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly gone into hiding in a fortified underground bunker in Tehran as tensions between the United States and Iran escalate. The move follows US President Donald Trump’s warning of deploying “big forces” near Iran amid fears of a possible military strike. Iranian authorities have not officially confirmed the report, but regional tensions continue to rise sharply.


US vs Iran: Khamenei Goes Into Hiding As Trump’s Strike Threat Looms 

Iran's supersonic anti-ship missiles and swarm tactics pose a severe threat to US naval dominance in the narrow Strait of Hormuz, risking a global energy crisis if tensions boil over.

'US vs Iran': Can Iran control the Persian Gulf with anti-ship missiles?

The US Navy’s advanced Aegis system and SM-3 interceptors hold a clear technological edge over Iran’s large but less sophisticated missile arsenal.

Who has the edge in case of war? Iran’s missiles vs US warship missile arsenals

As the USS Abraham Lincoln nears the Gulf, tensions peak. Iran warns of 'all-out war' while US forces prepare options to strike from the sea using missiles and jets.

'Trump’s game plan': Can US forces attack Iran from the Persian Gulf?

Israel’s Python-5 and I-Derby ER missiles pose a severe test for Iran’s S-300 and Bavar-373 defence systems. The combination of stealth aircraft, electronic jamming, and Mach 4 missile speed makes interception extremely difficult for Tehran’s air defence network in any potential conflict.

Can Iran’s defence systems stop Israel’s deadliest air-to-air missiles?

Israel’s David’s Sling is a mid-tier air defence system capable of intercepting missiles up to 300 km away. Developed with the US, it uses hit-to-kill Stunner interceptors to stop cruise and ballistic missiles.

Can it save Israel from an Iranian attack? Capabilities of David’s Sling system

 The US is rapidly deploying aircraft carriers, F-15 fighters, and missile defences to the Middle East as tensions with Iran soar in 2026. With President Trump keeping all options open, the Pentagon has positioned massive firepower in Qatar and at sea, ready for a potential strike.

'US vs Iran': Is the US prepared for an attack on Iran?

The US military dominates Iran in budget and tech, but Tehran’s missiles and swarm tactics in the narrow Gulf waters pose a serious, costly threat.

‘US vs Iran’: Which military really dominates in the Persian Gulf?

Iran uses a mix of Russian S-300s and local Bavar-373 systems to guard its airspace. While capable against jets, detecting advanced Israeli stealth drones remains a complex challenge due to radar gaps.

Can Iran’s defence systems stop Israeli drones? How effective would they be in case of war?

The US dominates cyber warfare with billions in funding and elite tech, but Iran’s destructive, low-cost guerrilla tactics make it a dangerous asymmetric threat.

Who is more advanced in cyber warfare: US cyber units vs Iranian hackers?

Iran's anti-ship missiles, including the supersonic Khalij Fars and 1,000 km Abu Mahdi, pose a significant naval threat. These weapons combine speed and range to target vessels in vital waterways.

'Iranian anti-ship missiles': How destructive are they?

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