Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned the reported targeting of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in joint strikes, stating that such actions constitute a “violation of the norms of international law.” The Iranian government confirmed earlier today that Khamenei had been martyred following joint strikes attributed to the United States and Israel, which reportedly began on February 28.

In a statement released on X, Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasized a long-standing international convention that heads of state and government should not be targeted. He extended deep condolences to Iran on the martyrdom of Ayatollah Khamenei, describing it as a profound loss for the nation.

“The Government and the people of Pakistan join the people of Iran in their hour of grief and sorrow and extend the most sincere condolences on the martyrdom of His Eminence Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei,” the Prime Minister stated. “We pray for the departed soul. May Allah Almighty grant patience and strength to the Iranian people to bear this irreparable loss.”