Iran interim Supreme Leader Alireza Arafi also reported dead; Full details here

Following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in joint U.S.-Israeli attacks, Iranian authorities appointed Ali Reza Arafi to the three‑member interim Leadership Council. However, recent claims by a former U.S. National Security Adviser suggest that Arafi has also died.

Post Published By: Sona Saini

Updated : 2 March 2026, 12:06 PM IST

Iran’s New Supreme Leader Ali Reza Arafi Also Reported Dead

Tehran: The former US NSA has claimed that Iran's new Supreme Leader, Alireza Arafi, has also died. Earlier, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had stated that a new council was formed following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in US and Israeli attacks. This council included Judiciary Chief Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei and Alireza Arafi.

Military Conflict and Leadership Change in West Asia

Amid rising tensions and military confrontation in West Asia, a major power shift has occurred in Iran. Ali Khamenei, Iran's longtime Supreme Leader, was killed in US and Israeli attacks. Following his death, an interim leadership system was established in the country through constitutional procedures.

Details of Attack

According to reports, the US and Israel carried out massive airstrikes on several military and government bases in Iran on Saturday. These attacks targeted the residences of top military and political leaders. The attack killed 86-year-old Ali Khamenei, who had led Iran since 1989. Iran initially denied the reports, but later confirmed his death.

Who is Alireza Arafi?

Ayatollah Alireza Arafi is considered Iran's senior religious leader. He was included as a jurist member of the Interim Leadership Council, which has begun assuming the responsibilities of the Supreme Leader.

His Role and Responsibilities

Arafi held the country’s highest religious and political position. His primary task was to stabilize the government during the transition period and lead until a new permanent Supreme Leader was elected. Together with other members of the Council, Arafi strove to maintain peace and administrative stability within the country.

This leadership transition in Iran was considered extremely sensitive amid the turbulent global political situation and the Middle East. The primary objective of the interim leadership was to prevent any political instability in the country and maintain order until a new Supreme Leader was elected.