On Martyrdom of the Imam of Ummah

Press Release on the Cowardly Assassination of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution of Iran (1 March 2026)

The banner of justice freedom-seeking dignity patriotism and moral integrity raised by the beloved leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran shall not fall

Press Release
Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Belgrade

1 March 2026

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

“Among the believers are men who have been true to their covenant with God. Some of them have fulfilled their vow (through martyrdom), and some await it; and they have never changed in the least.” (Qur’an 33:23)

The Leader of the Islamic Ummah and the great leader of Islamic Iran, Grand Ayatollah Khamenei, was martyred during brutal attacks carried out by the United States and the Zionist regime against his residence on the morning of Saturday, the 10th of the holy month of Ramadan. He attained the exalted rank of martyrdom and joined the heavenly realm.

This terrorist act constitutes an unprecedented military aggression against Iran’s territorial integrity and national sovereignty. It represents a blatant violation of the fundamental principles of the Charter of the United Nations and of international law.

Unprovoked military attacks, the assassination of national leaders, and the killing of innocent civilians set a dangerous precedent in international relations and signal a grave shift toward open domination and unchecked use of force at the global level.

The Islamic Republic of Iran calls upon international institutions—especially the United Nations Security Council, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, and all Member States—to uphold the principles and rules developed over centuries to restrain power and prevent coercion in relations among states.

Indifference and inaction in the face of organized crimes committed by the United States and the Zionist regime will embolden aggressors and leave lasting consequences for future generations worldwide. This military aggression, carried out in the midst of a diplomatic process and following previous acts of aggression, forms part of a broader pattern of destabilizing actions in West Asia, including crimes against the Palestinian people and attacks on independent states of the region.

The banner of justice, freedom-seeking, dignity, patriotism, and moral integrity raised by the beloved leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran shall not fall. His cowardly assassination transforms him into an immortal symbol in the history of Iran and Shi’a Islam, ensuring the continued vitality and resilience of the nation and inspiring the pursuit of justice and independence.

The free and steadfast nation of Iran, relying on faith in God and its rich civilizational heritage, will continue with greater determination along the path of independence, dignity, and resistance. Martyrdom marks not the end of a path, but the beginning of a new chapter of historical responsibility and unwavering perseverance.