As the country observes nationwide mourning, a temporary leadership structure has started taking shape. Arafi will now share authority with President Masoud Pezeshkian and the head of the judiciary. Together, they will manage state affairs until a new Supreme Leader is formally elected.

The interim council has been formed to ensure stability and continuity during this sensitive transition period.

Iran has been in deep shock since state media confirmed that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was martyred in what officials described as joint US and Israeli attacks. Authorities announced a seven-day public holiday along with a 40-day national mourning period.

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Some Israeli officials earlier claimed that his body had been recovered after the attack. British media, quoting Israeli sources, also reported similar claims.

US officials reportedly believe that Khamenei and between five to ten senior Iranian leaders were martyred in the operation.

These developments have led to nationwide mourning and strong warnings of retaliation. Tensions across the Middle East have sharply increased, and the situation remains highly sensitive.