India, March 2 -- Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was declared dead on Sunday by the Iranian government. Khamenei, who was the central figure of the Islamic Republic since 1989, was killed in his office during a joint military operation by the United States and Israel.

For the past 40 years, Khamenei has ruled over Iran with an iron fist. His death, the US hopes, would lead to a much-awaited regime change in the country. Follow LIVE updates on US Iran war here

Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian announced the formation of an advisory council as Tehran rushes to elect a new Supreme Leader who will guide the country through an escalating conflict with the US, Israel and neighbouring countries such as the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrai...