Iranian state television has declared a 40-day mourning period and announced seven public holidays following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who led the country for more than three decades.
In a broadcast on Sunday, a presenter said Khamenei’s death would not end his legacy, stressing that his mission and leadership ideals would continue to guide the nation with renewed determination.
State television had earlier confirmed that Khamenei died at the age of 86. The announcement was made at about 5:00 a.m. (0130 GMT), accompanied by archival footage of the late leader and a black mourning banner displayed on screen.
Khamenei had served as Iran’s supreme leader since 1989, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in the country’s modern history.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump had earlier claimed that Khamenei was killed in air strikes, although Iranian authorities did not link his death to any specific military action.
The declaration of national mourning underscores the significance of Khamenei’s role in Iran’s political and religious leadership, as the country prepares for a transition period following his passing.
