Iraq has announced a three-day national mourning period following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The declaration comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East after reports that he was killed in joint United States and Israeli strikes.
In an official statement issued on Sunday, Iraqi government spokesman Bassem al-Awadi expressed condolences to the people of Iran and the wider Muslim community. He described the incident as a serious act of aggression and confirmed that the federal government had ordered flags to fly at half-mast for three days.
Al-Awadi also called for an immediate halt to military operations across the region, warning that continued hostilities could push the Middle East into deeper instability and violence.
Iran maintains considerable political and security influence in Iraq. Over the years, Tehran has backed several armed factions in the country, strengthening its role in Iraqi political and military affairs. Iraq has long been a focal point of rivalry between the United States and Iran.
The Coordination Framework, a coalition of Shiite political groups that forms part of Iraq’s ruling bloc, also issued a statement mourning Khamenei’s death. The coalition praised his leadership and pledged continued solidarity with Iran.
Influential cleric Moqtada al-Sadr separately extended condolences to the Islamic world and likewise announced a three-day mourning period.
The development follows heightened regional tensions, with fears of further escalation after retaliatory military actions were reported in the aftermath of Khamenei’s death. Regional observers warn that the situation could significantly affect stability across Iraq and neighboring countries.
