Chief Imam Condoles Iran Over Khamenei’s Death, Urges End to Hostilities

The National Chief Imam, Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has expressed condolences to the Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran following the reported assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Iranian state media confirmed Khamenei’s death early Sunday, March 1, following a major attack reportedly carried out by Israel and the United States on February 28, which left multiple casualties. He was 86 years old.

In a statement issued Tuesday, March 3, the Chief Imam mourned the loss of life resulting from the conflict and called on all parties to respect national sovereignty, human dignity, and the sanctity of Ramadan. He described the event as a moment of profound grief for the global Islamic community.

The Chief Imam praised Ayatollah Khamenei as a devoted leader who combined faith with public service, demonstrating how religion and governance can work together to promote social order and national development.

He further described the Supreme Leader as a symbol of resistance and hope for the oppressed and urged all parties to end hostilities. “Escalating rhetoric must give way to peace-building pragmatism,” he said.

The revered cleric condemned what he termed US–Israeli aggression, noting that it led to Khamenei’s martyrdom during the holy month of Ramadan.

He also highlighted the importance of interfaith harmony, stating that despite the geopolitical nature of the conflict, lasting solutions require cooperation across faiths.

Emphasising the need for a renewed global order based on the principle of “right over might,” the Chief Imam said such an approach would strengthen global peace and security.

The statement concluded with prayers for Allah’s mercy upon the soul of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and all others who lost their lives in the conflict.