Lethal elite 'black-clad' kill squad guards Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei

Amidst an ongoing war with the United States and Israel, Iran's Assembly of Experts has appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on February 28, 2026. The 56-year-old, with strong ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), is seen as a figure of continuity for the theocratic establishment. The IRGC, along with the Iranian army, police, Defence Council, and Intelligence Minister, have pledged their allegiance to the new leader. The IRGC stated its forces are ready to obey Khamenei's commands to uphold the values of the Islamic revolution. This transition occurs as Iran faces external conflict, signaling a potential continuation of existing policies.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike, Iran's state media is showcasing pro-Mojtaba Khamenei rallies across the country, with citizens pledging loyalty to the new leader. These displays contrast sharply with earlier celebrations of Ali Khamenei's death, fueled by public anger over decades of repression. Despite an internet blackout, reports suggest some Iranians fear increased repression under Mojtaba, who has strong ties to the IRGC and Basij militia. Mojtaba's appointment follows the strike that killed his father and other family members. The prosecutor general has warned Iranians against cooperating with the US and Israel, signaling a potential crackdown amid the ongoing war.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his son Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has become Iran's new leader. Selected by the Assembly of Experts, Mojtaba assumes power as the Islamic Republic faces what is described as an existential battle. While supporters celebrated his appointment, some protesters voiced opposition, fearing an even harsher regime. Mojtaba, considered an ultraconservative, has worked within his father's government for decades and has close ties to the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The IRGC, which holds significant security and economic power, reportedly supported his candidacy. The war is described as personal, as Mojtaba also lost his mother in the same Israeli strike that killed his father.

Fighting between the U.S., Israel, and Iran has entered its second week, raising significant questions about the conflict's duration, objectives, and economic impact. The war began on February 28th, and there are no signs of it ending soon. Iran is retaliating against Israel, U.S. assets, and neighboring Arab countries. Mediation efforts are reportedly underway, although details are scarce. A key unknown is the stance of Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who succeeded his father after the war's initial strikes. Seen as more hard-line, his intentions regarding negotiations or continued conflict remain unclear. Iran's strategy of regional disruption persists, with attacks reported in Persian Gulf countries.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Mojtaba Khamenei has been chosen as Iran's new supreme leader. This transition occurs amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East. Iran is reportedly conducting retaliatory strikes across the region, including a drone attack in Bahrain that injured 32 people. Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait have also reported new attacks and interceptions of missiles and drones. The escalating conflict has caused oil prices to surge past $100 a barrel, triggering fears of global inflation and causing the Australian share market to plunge.

Following a weekend of escalating conflict in the Middle East, Mojtaba Khamenei has assumed leadership in Iran, succeeding his late father. This transition occurs as oil prices surpass $100 a barrel and regional casualties mount. Over the weekend, both sides struck new targets, including civilian infrastructure, with Bahrain accusing Iran of attacking a desalination plant and Israel targeting oil depots in Tehran. The US reported another soldier's death, and Saudi Arabia announced its first fatalities. The conflict, now in its tenth day, has displaced over half a million people in Lebanon and resulted in hundreds of deaths there, with Israel warning of a prolonged war.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has been selected as Iran's new Supreme Leader. The decision, announced by the clerical body responsible for selecting the leader, marks the first hereditary succession since the 1979 revolution. Iranian state media reports that key institutions, including the armed forces and Revolutionary Guards, have pledged allegiance to Mojtaba. The appointment has been met with swift condemnation from the US, with President Trump deeming Mojtaba an "unacceptable" choice and asserting that Washington should have a say in Iran's political future. The Israeli military has also stated it will pursue any successor to Ali Khamenei. The selection is expected to ignite debate within Iran regarding the emergence of a dynastic system.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei amid escalating conflict, Iran has signaled that his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, is likely to be named the new supreme leader. Ayatollah Hosseinali Eshkevari stated a vote had been cast, and another cleric indicated the announcement would be made by Hosseini Bushehri. Wartime conditions have prevented a public gathering to confirm the selection. The news comes as Israel reportedly struck fuel depots in Tehran, and Bahrain claimed an Iranian attack damaged a desalination plant. US President Donald Trump asserted that Washington should have a say in the selection process, implying potential consequences if the chosen leader doesn't receive US approval.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israel attack on February 28, 2026, his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been selected as Iran's new supreme leader. The announcement was made by state media on March 8, 2026, reporting that the Assembly of Experts chose him in a decisive vote. Mojtaba Khamenei, a 56-year-old hardline cleric, has deep ties to the IRGC and was increasingly seen as his father's successor. Despite never holding public office, he has been influential within Iranian leadership for decades. His appointment signals the continued power of hardline factions and may indicate a reluctance to negotiate with other countries. The Assembly of Experts has called for unity and support for the new leader.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes, Iran has appointed his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as the new Supreme Leader. The announcement was made by clerics, with support quickly pledged by the IRGC, armed forces, and key political figures. Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has been a highly influential figure within the Supreme Leader's inner circle for decades, cultivating strong ties to the IRGC. Analysts suggest his appointment indicates the continued power of hardline factions within the Iranian government. As the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei will lead Iran through a period of significant crisis amidst a growing regional war.

The US-Israel war on Iran has entered its second week, prompting international concern. US President Trump claims Iran is being "decimated" but has not ruled out deploying troops, while China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned the war. Iran claims it can sustain the conflict for at least six more months, despite Israeli strikes on Tehran fuel storage complexes. An Israeli strike on Beirut, Lebanon, resulted in casualties. The conflict continues to escalate, with regional implications and international calls for de-escalation.

On Sunday, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar reported missile and drone attacks, as Iran vowed to continue strikes against neighboring Gulf countries. Qatar stated it was targeted the previous day by multiple ballistic and cruise missiles fired from Iran, most of which were intercepted. Saudi Arabia's defense ministry reported intercepting and destroying fifteen drones entering its airspace. Kuwait's military reported responding to hostile drones that penetrated its airspace, with fuel tanks at Kuwait's international airport being targeted. Kuwait's national oil company also announced a precautionary cut to production. These incidents mark the second week of escalating regional conflict.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in attacks by the US and Israel in March 2026, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has emerged as a leading contender to become the next Supreme Leader of Iran. Mojtaba, a hardline cleric with close ties to the IRGC, has been influential behind the scenes for decades, despite never holding public office or being publicly vetted. His potential succession signals the continued strength of hardline factions within the Iranian government. While he has maintained a low public profile, he has been accused of involvement in the violent suppression of protests. If appointed, it would create a dynastic succession reminiscent of the pre-revolution monarchy.

Iran postponed the funeral of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died in a US-Israeli airstrike, due to anticipated large crowds. The three-day ceremony was originally scheduled to begin at the Imam Khomeini Mosalla mosque in Tehran at 10pm local time on Wednesday. State television announced the delay, citing the "expected unprecedented presence of mourners," and indicated a new time would be announced later. The funeral is expected to draw supporters of the Islamic Republic who oppose US and Israeli actions, which have escalated into a regional war. Khamenei's death has been met with condemnation from Russia and China, but also celebrations from opponents of the Iranian regime.

Iran has postponed a planned farewell ceremony for its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes on Saturday. The three-day program was scheduled to begin Wednesday at 10 p.m. local time at Imam Khomeini Prayer Hall, where large crowds were expected to gather. The postponement followed widespread requests to participate and the need for adequate infrastructure and facilities. No additional reason for the postponement was given, and it is unclear when the ceremony will be rescheduled. Ayatollah Khamenei's death triggers a closely watched succession process overseen by Iran's Assembly of Experts, which will heavily influence its outcome. The ceremony's postponement comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declared that whoever is chosen as Iran's next Supreme Leader will be considered a target for elimination. Katz made the statement on X, asserting that any leader continuing a plan to destroy Israel and threaten the US would be targeted. This threat follows an Israeli strike on a building associated with Iran's Assembly of Experts, the body responsible for selecting the new Supreme Leader. The statement escalates tensions between the two countries amidst ongoing conflict. Iranians are preparing for a farewell ceremony for Khamenei.

The Middle East conflict intensified as Israel and the US launched strikes against Iran, targeting command facilities, state offices, and missile sites. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israel and US interests across the Gulf region. The escalating violence has resulted in hundreds of deaths and billions of dollars in damage, primarily in Iran, raising concerns about a global economic crisis due to soaring energy prices. US President Trump stated he rejected Iran's attempt to negotiate and claimed significant damage to Iranian infrastructure. Iran denied seeking negotiations and called on the UN Security Council to intervene, while threatening further retaliation against the US and Israel. The conflict expanded with attacks on key Iranian sites, including a building used by the committee that chooses the Supreme Leader's successor.

Following a US-Israeli attack on a girls' school in Minab, Iran, a mass funeral was held for the 165 schoolgirls and staff killed on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Thousands gathered in Minab, chanting against the US and Israel, with attendees including families and officials. The attack, which occurred on Saturday after the announcement of joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, is described as the deadliest incident targeting civilians in the ongoing conflict. Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, have condemned the attack, accusing the US and Israel of deliberately targeting the school. While Israel has denied involvement, Iran has presented the event as a deliberate act of aggression, displaying images of the victims and newly dug graves.

Israel's military operation against Iran is aimed at regime change, according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who called on Iranians to overthrow their government after the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The US-Israel joint attack has already killed over 555 people in Iran, including 180 at a girls' school. Netanyahu's comments suggest that Israel seeks regime change from within, but it is unclear how invested Israeli officials are in ensuring a smooth transition. Many Iranians have taken to the streets in protests, united by their opposition to the government. The operation has sparked widespread violence and unrest in Iran. The Israeli government's policy on regime change in Iran appears to be a longstanding goal.

The US and Israel launched a military strike on Iran, killing hundreds of people, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on February 27. In response, Iran attacked several countries, including Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Senior diplomats from China and India met in New Delhi in February for strategic dialogue, aiming to view each other as partners rather than competitors. However, a persistent gap in their relationship was revealed in the readouts of the meeting. Canada's former deputy prime minister emphasized the need for countries to maintain constructive engagement with China while reducing economic dependency on the country. The global relations landscape is marked by tensions and shifting dynamics between major powers.

Following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other Iranian officials, Iran has launched attacks on US assets in the Gulf. As of March 2, 2026, these attacks have resulted in one death in Bahrain, with Iraq and Kuwait also reporting Iranian raids. The United States has stated that attacks on Iran will continue until all objectives are met. The escalating conflict also involves Hezbollah, which has fired rockets. The situation marks a significant escalation of tensions in the region.

On March 1, 2026, Iranian missiles were observed over Tel Aviv and the occupied West Bank. According to reports, the missiles penetrated Israel's defense systems. Iran stated the missile strikes were targeting Israeli military facilities. The event marks a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations. The extent of damage or casualties is currently unknown. Further details are awaited as the situation develops.

Oil prices surged after the reported death of Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli air strikes, escalating conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route, experienced near standstill, impacting tanker traffic. This disruption raised concerns about supply shortages and increased import costs, particularly for Asian economies like China, India, Japan, and South Korea, which heavily rely on oil imports. Benchmark Brent crude jumped significantly, reflecting market fears of sustained supply disruption. Iran retaliated with attacks on US military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, further escalating geopolitical tensions in the region.

Following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in March 2026, Iran retaliated by targeting Israel and US-linked military sites in the region, including in Gulf states hosting US forces. The exchange raises concerns about escalating conflict and Iran's capacity to strike back. Central to Iran's strategy is its large and diverse missile arsenal, including ballistic and cruise missiles, providing long-range capabilities. Iranian officials consider the missile program a key deterrent, especially given its aging air force. Western governments, however, view Iran's missile capabilities as destabilizing and potentially linked to nuclear ambitions, claims Iran denies.

Following the deaths of Supreme Leader Khamenei and top commanders in Tehran on Saturday, US and Israeli air strikes continue to hit Tehran and other Iranian cities on March 1, 2026. The strikes, which Israel claims targeted military centers, have been met with limited comment from Iranian authorities amid internet blackouts. Despite the attacks, Iran's remaining leaders are emphasizing continuity and vowing revenge. A leadership council, formed after Khamenei's death, has begun the process of selecting a new supreme leader, expected to be completed within days. In the interim, a three-member council consisting of the judiciary chief, the president, and a member of the Guardian Council will govern. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is also expected to play a significant role.

The death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in alleged US-Israeli air strikes has triggered outrage and calls for restraint across Muslim-majority South and Southeast Asia. Governments in the region are urging de-escalation amidst protests and declarations of mourning in response to Khamenei's death, which was confirmed by Iranian state media. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim condemned the strikes, emphasizing the potential for wider conflict and calling for a ceasefire and diplomatic resolution. He specifically criticized Israel's actions as disruptive to negotiations and cautioned against dragging other nations into the conflict. Malaysia is also monitoring the safety of its citizens in Iran and the surrounding region.

Following the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in an attack by Israel and the United States, tensions have escalated in the region. Iran launched missiles at targets in Israel and Gulf Arab states, vowing retaliation for Khamenei's death. In response, the Israeli military stated it was striking targets in central Tehran after clearing a path to the capital. The strikes and counterattacks have raised concerns about regional instability and the future of the Islamic Republic. Khamenei's death was confirmed by Iranian state media, leading to mourning and gatherings of government supporters in Tehran.

The CIA tracked the movements of Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, for months and shared this intelligence with Israeli officials. This intelligence sharing influenced the timing of recent strikes. These strikes, conducted by the US and Israel, resulted in the death of Khamenei and other senior Iranian leaders, prompting Iran to vow revenge. Iran retaliated with missile strikes against targets in Israel and Gulf Arab states. The conflict has resulted in casualties on both sides, including the first known American deaths, and has escalated tensions in the region, with Israel pledging continued strikes.

A coordinated US-Israeli strike targeted Iran on Saturday, reportedly killing several top Iranian leaders, including the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The operation involved a precision strike on a key target in Tehran, believed to be Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s compound, alongside a broader offensive using US-deployed kamikaze drones. US Central Command confirmed the use of these one-way attack drones, modeled after Iranian Shahed drones, for the first time in combat during "Operation Epic Fury." The attack, described as a "wildly bold daytime attack," targeted Iranian military, government, and intelligence sites, catching senior leadership off guard. Former President Trump announced that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei had been killed in the strike.

According to sources familiar with the operation, the United States provided intelligence to Israel that helped pinpoint a gathering of Iranian leaders. The intelligence sharing by the C.I.A. enabled Israel to conduct a strike that resulted in the deaths of Iran's supreme leader and other high-ranking Iranian officials. The collaboration between the two countries focused on identifying the location of the Iranian leaders. The strike occurred after the intelligence was shared, leading to the targeted killings.

In March 2026, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in a joint US-Israeli air attack, a significant blow to Iran's leadership since the 1979 revolution. The US, under President Trump, anticipates a swift collapse of the Iranian government, framing the operation as a "liberation" moment. However, analysts and insiders suggest the assassination could lead to a more militarized and aggressive Iranian state. They warn that the power vacuum might result in a "garrison state" willing to take extreme measures to survive. While Iran's President Pezeshkian vowed revenge, experts caution against assuming air strikes alone can trigger regime change without ground forces or internal uprising.

According to US President Donald Trump, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, has died following US and Israeli airstrikes. Iran has not confirmed the death of the 86-year-old, who has held the powerful position for three decades since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. As Supreme Leader, Khamenei was head of state, commander-in-chief, and held significant influence over public policy and elections. Born in 1939, Khamenei rose to prominence as a critic of the Shah, facing imprisonment and exile before becoming a key figure in the post-revolution leadership. His weekly sermons broadcast nationwide solidified his position. His death, if confirmed, could lead to an uncertain future for Iran and the region.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran faces a precarious situation with internal divisions and mounting external pressures. While some celebrated, hoping for an end to clerical rule, others mourned and demanded retribution. Despite maintaining military power, the regime faces a growing list of dead leaders, including high-ranking military officials, straining its leadership and resources. Simultaneously, Iran's regional relationships are deteriorating, with its Gulf partners criticizing its actions and accusing it of playing into the hands of the US. The Strategic Council on Foreign Relations pleaded with Gulf states to unite against the US, but the UAE countered that Iran's aggression is self-isolating. The article suggests that without a change in direction, the Iranian regime risks a breakdown in civil order.

On February 28, 2026, Donald Trump claimed on Truth Social that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Trump stated the 86-year-old Khamenei could not evade US intelligence and tracking systems. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also claimed there were "growing signs" of Khamenei's death, and Reuters cited an Israeli official reporting the body's location. However, Iranian news agencies Tasnim and Mehr reported that Khamenei remained in command, and an official from Khamenei's office accused enemies of "mental warfare." As of the report, there has been no official confirmation from Tehran regarding Khamenei's death.

On Saturday morning, the US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran, targeting Iranian leaders and military sites. In response, Iran's IRGC fired missiles at US military bases in the Gulf, with explosions reported in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, and Qatar, resulting in one death in the UAE. Explosions also occurred in Tehran, near the presidential palace. Iran launched missiles at Israel, triggering air defense systems over Jerusalem. The US President vowed to crush Iran's military and eliminate its nuclear program, citing the need to defend Americans. The Israeli Prime Minister stated the operation aimed to remove an existential threat. These events followed inconclusive nuclear talks between the US and Iran.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that Israel launched a preemptive strike against Iran early Saturday. Katz stated the strike was intended "to remove threats" against the state of Israel. Following the strike, Katz declared an immediate state of emergency across the entire country of Israel. The announcement was made by Katz, as reported by Fox News. Further details are currently unavailable as this is a developing story.

In February 2026, reports emerged that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in joint US-Israeli air strikes on his compound in Iran. Khamenei assumed leadership in 1989 after the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who led the Islamic Revolution. While Khomeini provided the revolution's ideology, Khamenei developed Iran's military and paramilitary forces, extending its influence beyond its borders. His distrust of the West, particularly the United States, stemmed from the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, during which Western countries supported Saddam Hussein. This shaped his belief that Iran needed constant defense against external and internal threats, leading to the rise of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a powerful institution.

Following reported Israeli strikes targeting Iranian leadership infrastructure in Tehran, the fate of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is currently unknown. The strikes heavily damaged Khamenei's fortified compound, including his residence and the House of Leadership, with some areas reduced to rubble. While Israeli officials are assessing the results and haven't confirmed Khamenei's death, they haven't ruled it out. Iranian officials insist Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian are safe, despite what they call an assassination attempt. Reports indicate a high-level meeting may have been underway at the time of the strike. Khamenei, who operates with tight security and a network of loyalists, has survived previous assassination attempts and unrest.