Cairo, March 2 -- Iran confirmed on Sunday that its Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in U.S.-Israeli airstrikes the previous day.

"The Supreme Leader ... lived a pious life, loved Iran, secured Iran's independence, opposed foreign domination, and worked tirelessly for our country's resilience and fortitude," the Iranian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. "He will remain a living nightmare for his killers forever."

The killing of the Iranian supreme leader has triggered a strong response from the Islamic Republic. As the latest escalation continues, analysts warn that the Middle East could spiral into deeper instability and chaos.

People gather to express solidarity with Iran and protest against the killing of Iran's Supreme Le...