Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the recent joint air strikes carried out by the United States and Israel that resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Speaking out on Sunday, the premier described the attack as a clear breach of established international legal principles, emphasizing that such actions undermine global norms governing the conduct of states. The targeting of a sitting head of state, he noted, is an age-old taboo that should never be violated under any circumstances.
The Iranian government confirmed early Sunday that Khamenei had been martyred in the coordinated air strikes launched on February 28. This shocking development has sent ripples across the region, prompting widespread reactions from world leaders and governments. In his statement posted on the social media platform X, Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed deep sorrow over the loss, extending heartfelt condolences to the Iranian nation during this profoundly difficult time.
He highlighted the significance of Khamenei’s leadership for Iran, describing his martyrdom as a monumental loss not only for the country but for the broader Muslim world. “The Government and the people of Pakistan stand in solidarity with the Iranian people in their grief and mourning,” the prime minister said. He prayed that Allah grants patience and resilience to the Iranian populace as they navigate through this tragic period, underscoring the shared bonds between the two nations.
In a related development, former President Asif Ali Zardari also voiced his condolences, expressing deep regret over the demise of the Iranian supreme leader along with other senior officials who lost their lives in the attacks. A statement from the President’s Secretariat conveyed his sympathy and support for Iran during this time of national crisis.
Meanwhile, Iran has declared a 40-day period of public mourning in response to Khamenei’s martyrdom, state media. The government has also announced seven days of official public holidays to honor the late leader’s memory, reflecting the profound impact of his death on the country’s political and social fabric. The Fars news agency detailed these measures, highlighting the scale of national grief.
In the wake of this leadership vacuum, Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, along with two other senior officials, has been entrusted with guiding the nation through the transitional phase. State television revealed that Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei and a prominent member of the country’s legal council will join Pezeshkian in overseeing this critical period. This interim leadership team was confirmed by Mohammad Mokhber, an adviser to Khamenei, signaling a carefully managed succession plan amid ongoing uncertainty.
The assassination of Ayatollah Khamenei marks a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern geopolitics, with potential ramifications for regional stability and international relations. Pakistan’s response, articulated by its top leadership, underscores the importance of respecting sovereign rights and adhering to international law, especially in times of conflict. As the situation continues to evolve, the global community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the tensions sparked by this unprecedented event.
