Iran fires missiles at Israel, Gulf states after U.S.-Israeli strike kills Khamenei

In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Iran has launched missile strikes targeting Israel and Gulf states following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Iranian government confirmed that Khamenei was killed during a U.S.-Israeli airstrike on February 28, 2026, which struck his office in Tehran. This unprecedented event has sparked widespread speculation about the future of Iran's leadership and the stability of the Islamic Republic, with potential ramifications for the entire region. The airstrike, described as a significant military operation by U.S. and Israeli forces, has deepened fears of escalating violence and further retaliation from Iran. Analysts warn that the death of Khamenei, a central figure in Iran's political landscape, could lead to a power vacuum and increased volatility in an already fragile geopolitical environment. As Iran vows to respond to the attacks, the international community watches closely, concerned about the potential for a broader conflict that could destabilize the Middle East further.