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Iran has announced 40 days of national mourning and declared seven days of public holiday following the death of its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The declaration was broadcast on state television on Sunday after Iranian authorities formally confirmed his death.
State-run broadcaster IRINN replaced regular programming with Quran recitations and archival images of Khamenei, while a black mourning banner was displayed on screen.
A statement read by a news anchor, issued by Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, described Khamenei’s death as “martyrdom” and accused the United States and Israel of responsibility for the attack that led to his demise.
The council said the development would mark the start of what it called a renewed struggle against “oppression.”
International media reports indicated that the confirmation followed hours of speculation sparked by Israeli media claims that Khamenei had been killed during coordinated strikes carried out on Saturday.
Meanwhile, United States President Donald Trump had earlier announced the death in a post on Truth Social late Saturday, describing it as justice for both Iranians and others he alleged were harmed under Khamenei’s leadership.
Trump also claimed that the moment presented an opportunity for Iranians to reclaim their country, adding that elements within Iran’s security forces were reportedly seeking immunity and unwilling to continue fighting.
Iranian authorities have yet to release details on funeral arrangements, but nationwide mourning activities are expected to begin immediately as the country prepares for an extended period of official remembrance.
