Tehran: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was martyred in US and Israeli strikes, Iranian state media confirmed on Sunday, as fresh waves of attacks reportedly hit parts of the country.
The assassination of the Iranian leader drew swift reactions from several countries and international bodies, many of which called for restraint and de-escalation amid fears of a broader regional conflict.
Pakistan
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the targeting of Iran’s supreme leader, terming it a violation of international law.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, the prime minister said it was an established convention that heads of state or government should not be targeted under any circumstances.
“Pakistan also expresses concern over the violation of the norms of international law. It is an age-old convention that the heads of state/government should not be targeted,” he stated.
Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin described the killing as a “cynical murder” carried out in violation of human morality and international law.
In a message of condolence, he termed the act a breach of all accepted international norms and extended sympathies over the death of the Iranian leader and his family members.
China
China said it “strongly condemns” the assassination, calling it a serious violation of Iran’s sovereignty and the principles of the UN Charter.
In a statement, Beijing’s foreign ministry urged an immediate halt to military operations and reiterated its opposition to actions that undermine regional stability.
Malaysia
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim “unreservedly” condemned the killing, warning that the act had placed the Middle East on the brink of prolonged instability. He extended condolences to the Iranian government and people during what he described as a profoundly difficult moment.
Indonesia
The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) expressed deep condolences over Khamenei’s death, calling it the result of an Israeli-American attack. The council also questioned the role of the United States in regional peace initiatives and urged the Indonesian government to reconsider its participation in related forums.
North Korea
North Korea condemned the US and Israeli strikes as an “illegal act of aggression.” A spokesperson for the country’s foreign ministry described the attack as a grave violation of sovereignty.
Iran
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian termed the martyrdom of the Supreme Leader a “great disaster” for the country, warning that the United States and Israel would face consequences for their actions.
The developments have heightened tensions across the Middle East, with diplomatic efforts intensifying to prevent further escalation.