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.

On March 9, 2026, global oil prices surged past $100 a barrel, exceeding a 20% increase, due to the ongoing war between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Brent crude reached over $114 a barrel before settling around $107.50. The conflict, which began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, has disrupted global energy supplies, with Iran halting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil transit route. In response, Iraq, the UAE, and Kuwait, major OPEC producers, have cut production. US President Trump dismissed concerns, predicting a rapid price drop after the conflict ends, while the Energy Secretary called any price increases temporary.

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 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.

Global oil prices have surpassed $100 a barrel for the first time since 2022, reaching $108.10 for Brent crude and $108.72 for WTI crude as of Monday. The surge follows escalating military aggression in the Middle East, specifically the US-Israeli war on Iran, which has disrupted oil supplies and removed 20 million barrels per day from the market. Kuwait's national oil company has already announced precautionary cuts to its crude oil production. Experts attribute the price increase to the ongoing conflict and the US administration's stance, with concerns that continued disruption could lead to further price increases and production shutdowns across Gulf energy exporters. Oil prices have risen by two-thirds since the start of the year.

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 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.

US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on March 3, 2026, that US forces destroyed Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) command and control facilities, air defense installations, and missile/drone launch sites in Iran, as US-Israeli attacks continued for a fourth day. CENTCOM claims US forces struck over 1,250 targets in Iran and destroyed 11 Iranian ships. Iran has retaliated, with CENTCOM confirming six US service members killed in attacks on Kuwait, where three US fighter jets were mistakenly shot down. ISNA reports five IRGC members killed in US-Israeli attacks in Bushehr province. The conflict's duration remains uncertain, with President Trump stating the US is prepared for a longer engagement.

In March 2026, escalating conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel has spread across multiple fronts. The US Embassy in Saudi Arabia was hit by Iranian drones amidst increasing attacks on Iran by the US and Israel. Strikes occurred across Tehran, while Israel conducted a targeted attack on Hezbollah members in Beirut and southern Lebanon. During an Iranian air assault, three US fighter jets were mistakenly downed by Kuwaiti fire. Protests in support of Iran took place in Baghdad. The conflict has resulted in casualties and widespread damage in the region.

Following drone attacks on U.S. embassies in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, the U.S. State Department has closed its embassies in those two countries. The State Department also issued an urgent advisory, recommending that American citizens immediately depart from 14 unspecified countries. These actions come as tensions escalate in the region, with Iran reportedly increasing retaliatory measures. Simultaneously, the Israeli military announced it has seized additional territory in Lebanon amidst ongoing conflict with Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran. The closures and travel advisory highlight growing concerns about the safety of American personnel and citizens in the Middle East.

Amid escalating conflict and soaring shipping costs, China has called for the protection of vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The strait, a critical route for global energy supplies, has been effectively closed following missile attacks between the US/Israel and Iran, disrupting approximately 20% of global seaborne crude oil and gas. China, a major importer of Iranian oil, urged all parties to de-escalate tensions and ensure safe navigation. The closure has choked off energy exports from Middle Eastern producers, leading to potential shortages and price increases, impacting countries like India, Korea, Thailand, and the Philippines. Recent incidents include attacks on tankers in the region, further exacerbating the situation.

Retaliatory attacks between the US, Israel, and Iran continue for a second day. US Central Command reported three US service members killed and five seriously wounded in action in Iran, prompting President Trump to warn of potential further casualties. In Israel, a missile strike in Beit Shemesh resulted in nine deaths. Iranian officials claim a strike, which they attribute to the US and Israel, killed at least 153 people, including children, at a school. Centcom is investigating the reported incident, while the Israeli military denies involvement. The UAE reports three deaths from Iranian attacks since Saturday, and Kuwait reports one death.

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.

Three US F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets were mistakenly shot down over Kuwait by Kuwaiti air defenses on Sunday at 11:03 pm ET, according to US Central Command (Centcom). The incident occurred during active combat following US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran, amid attacks from Iranian aircraft, missiles, and drones. All six crew members ejected safely and are in stable condition. Kuwait has acknowledged the incident and launched an investigation. Iran's state media claimed Iranian armed forces were responsible for hitting a US plane that crashed in Kuwait. The incident is part of a larger conflict that began after the US initiated airstrikes on Iran, leading to retaliatory missile attacks by Iran on multiple countries and military bases in the region.

U.S. forces, in coordination with Israel, launched "Operation Epic Fury," a large-scale military assault on Iranian targets on Saturday, beginning at 1:15 a.m. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that over 1,000 sites across Iran were struck within the first 24 hours, resulting in the elimination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other senior officials. The operation involved a wide array of military assets, including B-2 stealth bombers, fighter jets, attack aircraft, missile defense systems, drones, naval vessels, and reconnaissance aircraft. CENTCOM confirmed the first combat deployment of LUCAS one-way attack drones, modeled after Iranian Shahed drones, during the operation. Targeted sites included command centers, IRGC headquarters, air defense systems, missile sites, naval assets, and military communication infrastructure. Iran retaliated with missile launches.

A video verified by the BBC appears to show an F-15 fighter jet crashing to the ground near Kuwait City. The footage was filmed from the west of the city, on the edge of the Al Jahra area. US Central Command later confirmed that three US F-15 jets went down due to "an apparent friendly fire incident". All six crew members ejected safely and are in stable condition. The incident occurred in an unspecified location near Kuwait City, with no further details provided.

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.

Oil prices surged on Monday after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran, prompting retaliatory strikes against US and Israeli military installations in the Middle East. Brent crude rose by 9 percent to $79.41 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate increased by 8.6 percent to $72.79 a barrel. The conflict has disrupted the global energy supply chain, particularly impacting traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil tankers. Tankers are accumulating on either side of the strait due to concerns about attacks and insurance. Experts predict a significant price increase if the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively blocked, preventing 15 million barrels of crude oil from reaching markets daily.

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.

Thousands of mourners gathered in Tehran on Sunday following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a US-Israeli attack. The attack, which began on Saturday, aimed to overthrow the Iranian government. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) vowed a severe retaliation against the US and Israel, threatening a major operation targeting both countries and their regional bases. Further explosions were reported in Doha, Dubai, and Manama, and sirens sounded in Israel as the Israeli military responded to Iranian missile fire. President Trump warned of unprecedented force against Iran if it retaliates. Khamenei had been Iran's supreme leader since 1989.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, died at age 86 following a US-Israeli strike on his compound in Tehran. The strike, confirmed by satellite imagery showing heavy damage, occurred on Saturday and was announced by US President Donald Trump. Khamenei's daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter were also reportedly killed in the attack. Iran has declared 40 days of mourning. Khamenei, who ruled for 36 years after succeeding Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989, was a polarizing figure, both revered and feared for his role in maintaining the Islamic Republic and building Iran into a powerful anti-US force. Reports indicate that some Iranians grieved while others celebrated his death.

Following a joint U.S.-Israeli military action, Iran launched attacks against Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, and Bahrain. The attacks targeted these Gulf states in response to the prior U.S.-Israeli operation. The specific nature and extent of the attacks were not detailed in the provided information. The attacks threaten the image of security and openness that these states have cultivated. The timing and motivations behind the initial U.S.-Israeli action remain unspecified.

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.

In a recent military operation, President Trump authorized targeted strikes against Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, marking a significant shift in his approach to Iran. This action contrasts with his stance eight months prior when he rejected an Israeli plan to kill Khamenei due to concerns about regional destabilization. The recent operation, conducted in collaboration with Israel, resulted in the deaths of Khamenei, the defense minister, and the commander of the Revolutionary Guard, as confirmed by Iranian state TV. Trump announced Khamenei's death and framed the operation as an opportunity for the Iranian people to reclaim their country. This represents a notable escalation in Trump's willingness to use military force against Iran compared to his earlier reluctance.

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.

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.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader since 1989, has reportedly died following an Israeli strike on a compound in Tehran. A senior Israeli official confirmed the death to Fox News Digital. Khamenei, born in 1939, played a key role in the 1979 Iranian Revolution and served as president before becoming Supreme Leader. During his rule, he consolidated power, oversaw crackdowns on dissent, and maintained a hardline stance against the U.S. and Israel. His leadership faced challenges, including mass protests in 2009 and 2022, which were met with brutal suppression. Khamenei's death marks the end of his over three-decade reign as the longest-serving autocrat in the Middle East.

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.