Tehran, Iran – March 1, 2026 – In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves across the globe, Iranian state media has declared the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, dead at the age of 86. The announcement came early this morning, citing natural causes, though details remain sparse amid a veil of secrecy surrounding the regime's inner circle. Khamenei, who has held the position of Supreme Leader since 1989 following the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, was a towering figure in Iranian politics and Shia Islam. His leadership oversaw decades of tense relations with the West, including the nuclear program negotiations, support for proxy groups in the Middle East, and domestic policies that shaped the Islamic Republic's trajectory. Sources close to the government indicate that his health had been declining in recent years, with rumors of illness circulating despite official denials. The declaration was made via a brief statement on state television, interrupting regular programming: "The Supreme Leader has ascended to the divine realm, leaving behind a legacy of resistance and faith." Mourning periods have been announced nationwide, with flags at half-mast and public gatherings restricted to prevent unrest. International reactions poured in swiftly – from condolences by allies like Russia and China to cautious statements from the U.S. and Israel, where Khamenei's anti-Western rhetoric had long been a point of contention. As Iran grapples with this seismic shift, attention turns to the Assembly of Experts, tasked with appointing a successor. Potential candidates include current President Ebrahim Raisi or other hardline clerics, but the process could ignite internal power struggles. The world watches closely as the Middle East's geopolitical landscape faces potential upheaval. This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates. #💞دعا میں یاد رکھنا 🤲🏻 #💐 آداب 👐