The reported killing of Ali Khamenei in an attack by United States and Israeli forces has drawn sharp responses from governments and international bodies, raising concerns about escalation and regional instability.
Iran stated it launched retaliatory strikes on Israel and US-linked assets in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Oman. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) pledged further action, claiming it targeted 27 bases in the Middle East where US troops are stationed.
Several countries in the region temporarily closed their airspace amid the exchange of attacks. A Gulf source indicated that foreign ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) comprising Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE would hold an emergency meeting via video conference.
Diplomats from the European Union’s 27 member states also convened urgent discussions after the United Nations Security Council met late on Saturday.
Below is a summary of key reactions.
Iran
President Masoud Pezeshkian described the killing as an “open declaration of war against Muslims”, particularly Shia communities. In a condolence message, he termed the event a major trial for the Islamic world and signalled continued resistance.
Israel
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz congratulated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the armed forces for the operation. In a public statement, Katz said Israel would continue to act “with full force”.
United States
US President Donald Trump confirmed the operation and warned Iran against further retaliation. In remarks posted on his social media platform, he cautioned that any additional strikes by Iran would prompt a strong response from Washington.
Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the killing, calling it a violation of international law. In a message published by the Kremlin, he extended condolences to Iran and described Khamenei as an important figure in Russia–Iran relations.
China
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Beijing “strongly condemns” the killing, calling it a violation of Iran’s sovereignty and of the principles of the UN Charter. China urged an immediate halt to military operations.
European Union
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described the development as a defining moment in Iran’s history and said the bloc was consulting regional partners to explore de-escalation measures.
United Kingdom
UK Defence Secretary John Healey said the immediate priority was protecting British military personnel and civilians from potential retaliatory attacks.
Hamas
Hamas condemned the strike, describing it as a serious violation of Iran’s sovereignty and attributing responsibility to the US and Israel. The group called for action from Arab and Muslim states.
Yemen’s Houthis
The Houthi political leadership expressed condolences to Iran, characterising the strike as a breach of international norms and part of broader regional aggression.
North Korea
North Korea’s Foreign Ministry labelled the US–Israeli operation an “illegal act of aggression”, accusing Washington and its ally of violating sovereignty.
Pakistan
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed condolences and said Pakistan stood with the people of Iran during what he termed a period of grief.
Chad
Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno conveyed sympathy to Iran and extended condolences over the killing.
