Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei Killed in Israeli-American Strike; Indonesia Expresses Condolences
Jakarta — Jusuf Kalla, Indonesia’s tenth and twelfth Vice President, has conveyed his condolences over the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Khamenei was killed following strikes by Israel and the United States against Iran on Saturday, 28 February 2026.
Kalla observed that Iran’s political dynamics have not been entirely cohesive, identifying at least three major factions within the country. First, groups supporting the government. Second, factions advocating for change or reform, which have engaged in various demonstrations in recent months. Third, the old monarchist faction linked to the Pahlavi dynasty.
“Nevertheless, the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is something we deeply regret. We grieve and mourn over this matter,” he stated.
Kalla also highlighted Indonesia’s role in responding to the conflict. As a nation with a Muslim majority population and as a United Nations member, Indonesia must call for an end to the conflict.
“Indonesia, as a predominantly Muslim nation and a UN member, naturally endeavours to call for and pray for an immediate cessation of this situation,” Kalla said.
Israel launched strikes on Tehran, Iran on Saturday, 28 February 2026. Following the strikes, Israel closed its airspace and declared a state of emergency.
According to The Guardian, Israel closed its airspace to anticipate possible Iranian retaliatory attacks with drones and missiles.
An Israeli military spokesperson stated that the strikes represented a preliminary measure to eliminate threats to the country.
Meanwhile, the Agence France-Presse news agency reported two explosions heard in Tehran.
The information was conveyed by several US officials and other sources with knowledge of the operation.
The strikes occurred as the United States deployed a large fleet of fighter jets and warships to the region to pressure Iran into reaching an agreement regarding its nuclear programme.
Following Khamenei’s death, Iran has declared 40 days of mourning and seven days of national holiday.