Putin Condemns Killing of Khamenei as Violation of All Moral and International Law Norms

Russian President Vladimir Putin has condemned the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to Putin, the attack that resulted in Khamenei’s death violated all standards of human morality and international law.

“Please accept my deepest condolences regarding the assassination of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Seyyed Ali Khamenei, and members of his family, which was carried out in cynical violation of all norms of human morality and international law,” Putin said in a telegram addressed to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, according to Russian news agency TASS.

“I ask you to convey my sincere sympathy and support to the family and friends of the Supreme Leader, the government, and the entire Iranian people,” Putin added.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in a joint United States and Israeli air strike on Tehran on Saturday, 28 February 2026. News agency Fars News Agency reported that Khamenei died in his office whilst carrying out his duties.

Iranian state media reported that Khamenei’s daughter, son-in-law, and one of his grandsons were also killed in the combined US-Israeli air strike. Following Khamenei’s death, the Iranian government announced 40 days of mourning and seven days of national holidays.

Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, announced that the leadership council would assume the duties of the Supreme Leader until a successor to the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is elected.