Tensions in the Middle East have sharply increased after Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was reportedly killed in joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Tehran.
On Wednesday (March 4, 2026), Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a strong warning. He said Israel would target and assassinate any Iranian leader chosen to replace Khamenei if that leader continued hostile actions against Israel.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials announced that a farewell ceremony for Khamenei would begin in Tehran on Wednesday night. Hojjatoleslam Mahmoudi, head of Iran’s Islamic Propagation Council, told state media that the ceremony would continue for three days. Details about the funeral procession are expected to be announced later.
The conflict has now entered its fifth day. Israel has carried out fresh airstrikes in Iran and also in Lebanon. Lebanese state media reported that a residential building was hit during one of the strikes, raising concerns about civilian safety.
The situation has also affected global energy markets. Oil prices have risen due to fears that the conflict could disrupt supply. Iran has threatened to block the Strait of Hormuz, a key route through which a large portion of the world’s oil is transported.
Responding to the threat, U.S. President Donald Trump said the U.S. Navy is prepared to escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz to ensure safe passage. He defended the U.S. military action, stating that Washington believed Iran was planning to strike first.
As the conflict continues, world leaders are closely watching developments, fearing that further escalation could destabilize the region and impact the global economy.