WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPA) — U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran following its vow to launch unprecedented strikes in response to the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Khamenei, who led Iran since 1989, was killed on the first day of coordinated U.S. and Israeli military operations in the Persian Gulf, according to Trump’s announcement on February 29, 2026. He was 86 years old.
In a post on Truth Social dated March 1, Trump wrote:
“Iran just stated that they are going to hit very hard today, harder than they have ever hit before. THEY BETTER NOT DO THAT, HOWEVER, BECAUSE IF THEY DO, WE WILL HIT THEM WITH A FORCE THAT HAS NEVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE!”
Trump described Khamenei as “one of the most evil people in history” while confirming his death.
Meanwhile, Iranian authorities have declared a 40-day mourning period and announced a seven-day national holiday in honor of the late leader.
The situation remains tense, with fears of escalation across the region. Updates will follow as developments unfold.
