Iran's Ayatollah Khamenei killed in US-Israeli strikes: Who'll succeed him now? Key scenarios

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has served as Iran's supreme leader since 1989, was reportedly killed in the initial phase of a significant military operation conducted by the United States and Israel. Khamenei, a prominent figure known for his staunch opposition to Western influence and policies, had been a central figure in Iran's political landscape, shaping the nation’s foreign and domestic policies for decades. His death raises critical questions about the future of Iran's leadership and the potential power vacuum that may ensue. Analysts are now speculating on possible successors, considering figures such as Ebrahim Raisi, Iran's current president, and other prominent clerics and military leaders. The geopolitical implications of Khamenei's demise could reverberate across the Middle East, altering the dynamics of Iran's relations with both its allies and adversaries. As the region braces for potential unrest and shifts in power, the international community is closely monitoring the situation to gauge its impact on global stability and security.