Iran declares 40 days mourning for Khamenei, tensions rise in Strait of Hormuz

The death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in Saturday’s airstrikes has plunged the country into unprecedented turmoil. Hours after US and Israeli forces claimed responsibility for his demise, the Iranian cabinet swiftly announced seven days of public holiday and a 40-day period of national mourning.

As Iran mourns its leader, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy issued urgent warnings: vessels were instructed not to navigate through the Strait of Hormuz amid continued missile strikes. These attacks have also targeted other Arab neighbors in the region, including Bahrain, the UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar, with interceptions reported by Iranian forces.

Ali Shamkhani, a key advisor to Khamenei, was among those killed during Saturday’s assaults, alongside several IRGC commanders. Iran launched retaliatory missile strikes toward Israel and across Persian Gulf states. In Abu Dhabi, one individual died as the missiles made contact.

Blasts were reported in Tehran, Tabriz, Qom, Karaj, Khorramabad, Kermanshah, Ilam, among other cities. Iranian government facilities also took a hit; its office in Tehran was targeted and airspace closure lasted six hours.

The consequences of these military exchanges have far-reaching implications across the globe. Major international travel has been severely disrupted, with US-Iran strikes triggering significant disruptions to global aviation. In response, airlines canceled or rerouted flights at Dubai International Airport—currently the busiest hub for international travel globally—and Abu Dhabi and Kuwait airports, leaving Middle Eastern skies almost devoid of aircraft.

The world now watches as Iran grapples with the loss of its most influential figure and considers how to navigate this new era under a government that has declared 40 days of mourning. The region remains tense, with ongoing military confrontations further complicating diplomatic efforts for peace and stability.