US–Iran War: Two Months of Conflict After Khamenei's Death

The US–Iran war marks its sixtieth day, stemming from a devastating strike that killed Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched nearly 900 military strikes, aiming to dismantle Iran’s nuclear ambitions and ballistic missile program. This conflict emerged from failed diplomatic talks, culminating in a decisive military operation dubbed Operation Epic Fury. Khamenei, who ruled for over three decades, was killed in a precise airstrike that also took out key officials. In response, Iran declared 40 days of national mourning and swiftly appointed Mojtaba Khamenei, a more hardline figure, as the new Supreme Leader. Despite the shock, Iran's government remains defiant, unwilling to negotiate under pressure. As a fragile ceasefire holds, global trade faces significant disruptions from ongoing blockades, and peace talks are stalled. Here’s the thing: the ramifications of this conflict extend far beyond the Middle East, affecting global security and energy markets. The impact of these events could shape international relations for years to come.