Following the reported death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israeli operation on February 28, 2026, Iran formed an interim ruling council to govern until a successor is chosen. Meanwhile, Israel continued military operations, claiming to strike Iranian missile launchers and air defense systems.
Key points
- Ayatollah Alireza Araafi was appointed as the third and final member of Iran's temporary ruling council on March 1, 2026.
- The interim council includes Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Chief Justice Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei.
- Israel's military (IDF/Tsahal) published footage of strikes against Iranian ballistic missile launchers, drones, and air defense systems as part of Operation "Lion's Roar".
- Iran launched two missiles toward British military bases on Cyprus, though the UK Defence Secretary John Heale stated they were not targeted at the bases.
- Iran's leader Masoud Pezeshkian called Khamenei's death an open war against all Muslims, claiming he was killed by "the most malicious criminals in the world."
Why it matters
The death of Iran's Supreme Leader and the immediate formation of an interim council signify a major political transition amidst ongoing military conflict with Israel and the US.
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