Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Large crowds of Iranians moved toward Azadi Square in Tehran early Sunday following reports that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei had been killed, in scenes reflecting widespread public reaction and a declared period of national mourning.
Video footage circulating on social media showed groups of people converging on the capital’s central square in the early morning hours, many appearing to take part in mourning gatherings after the dramatic announcement.
Iranian authorities declared 40 days of national mourning and a seven-day official holiday following the reported death of Khamenei, who had ruled the Islamic Republic for 36 years and was 86 at the time of his death.
Iranian confirmation
Iran’s Tasnim news agency reported that Khamenei was killed at his residence while performing his duties in his office, describing the strike that targeted him early Saturday morning as a “cowardly attack.”
The confirmation followed hours of conflicting statements earlier in the crisis, during which Iranian officials had initially denied the supreme leader’s death before later acknowledging it.
Trump statement
US President Donald Trump had formally announced Khamenei’s death late Saturday, writing on his Truth Social platform that the Iranian leader, whom he described as “one of the most evil figures in history,” was dead.
His statement came amid a broader escalation between Iran on one side and the United States and Israel on the other, raising fears of further regional instability.
Uncertain next steps
The gathering crowds in Tehran underscore the highly sensitive moment facing Iran’s leadership as the country enters a transition period following the reported loss of its most powerful figure.
Authorities have yet to clarify the full succession process, while regional tensions remain elevated and international observers are closely monitoring developments inside Iran in the hours ahead.
