Iranian state television announced on March 1st a 40-day period of national mourning and 7 days of national holidays to commemorate Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

“With the martyrdom of the Supreme Leader, his path and mission will not be lost or forgotten. On the contrary, his legacy will continue to be pursued with greater determination and enthusiasm,” a presenter said.

Khamenei, who had been in power since 1989, along with many family members and a number of high-ranking Iranian generals, were killed on February 28th in an airstrike by the US and Israel.

The US and Israeli attack marked one of the most serious attacks on Iran’s leadership since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned the attack. He also declared a seven-day national holiday in addition to a 40-day period of national mourning.

“Ceremonies will be held,” he said, noting that commemorative activities are likely to continue amid ongoing US and Israeli bombing across the country.