Within hours of President Donald Trump’s announcement, Iranian state‑controlled media reported that Ali Khamenei had died. State television referred to the 86‑year‑old leader as a “martyr”. In response, the government declared a 40‑day period of national mourning. The Revolutionary Guard pledged revenge not only for Khamenei’s death but also for the loss of several senior officials, including the Armed Forces chief of staff.
On the same day, Trump warned against further retaliation. “If they carry it out, we will strike back with a level of violence never before seen” he posted on his microblogging platform, Truth Social.
In the meantime, Iranian retaliation attacks spread to Dubai, sparking a new series of explosions. The iconic Burj Al Arab skyscraper appeared to be struck by an Iranian drone. Viral footage circulating online shows the hotel’s façade engulfed in flames, with several floors ablaze.