Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei dies after decades in power

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, the country's highest religious and political authority, has died after more than three decades in power, according to reports. Khamenei had served as Supreme Leader since 1989, a post that holds final decision-making authority over Iran's military, judiciary and state institutions and plays a defining role in the country's domestic and foreign policy. During his tenure, he was known for suppressing opposition with harsh methods, pursuing a balancing policy among internal political factions and maintaining long-running tensions with the United States. Khamenei rose to the position after taking on senior political responsibilities during the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, and was appointed Supreme Leader following the death of Ayatollah Khomeini. The selection of his successor will be carried out by the Assembly of Experts, a process seen as a critical juncture for Iran's political future.