Israel Launches Fresh Strikes on Iran After Death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei

Israel launched a new wave of airstrikes on Iran Sunday, escalating tensions across the Middle East after the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in coordinated U.S.-Israeli military operations. Iranian state media confirmed the 86-year-old leader’s death following a large-scale air assault that also killed Armed Forces Chief of Staff Abdolrahim Mousavi, marking a dramatic turning point in the regional conflict.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iran against retaliation, stating that any response would be met with unprecedented force. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the United States would strike back “with a force that has never been seen before” if Iran targets U.S. assets. Iranian officials, including Ali Larijani and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, condemned the attacks, accusing Washington and Tel Aviv of crossing a red line and vowing consequences.

Iran responded by launching missiles and drones at U.S. bases in Iraq and targets in Gulf states, according to local media reports. Explosions were heard in Dubai and Doha, with missile interceptions lighting up the skies. Air raid sirens also sounded across Israel as its air-defense systems intercepted incoming threats. Despite the escalation, the Pentagon reported no U.S. casualties.

Global markets reacted sharply as Iran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route handling roughly 20% of global oil supply. The move disrupted energy shipments and aviation traffic, grounding flights at major hubs including Dubai International Airport. OPEC+ is reportedly considering increasing oil production to stabilize markets.

The death of Khamenei, who ruled Iran for 36 years, raises questions about the future of Iran’s clerical leadership and the influence of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps. A temporary leadership council is expected to govern as regional tensions continue to mount.