In a televised address carried by Iran’s state broadcaster, Larijani stated that the transition would proceed "without delay” under provisions outlined in the Constitution. He referenced Article 110, explaining that in the absence of a Supreme Leader, authority would be exercised by a three-member council consisting of the president, the head of the judiciary, and a jurist from the Guardian Council selected by the Expediency Discernment Council, pending the appointment of a successor.

"The nation’s unity has neutralized hostile plans aimed at destabilizing the country,” Larijani said, adding that Iran’s institutions remain operational and coordinated.

Iranian state outlets reported Saturday that Khamenei, who had served as Supreme Leader since 1989 after the death of Ruhollah Khomeini, died in what officials described as coordinated U.S.-Israeli strikes. 

In a separate statement broadcast Sunday, Iran’s armed forces said they had launched missile and drone operations targeting Israeli-controlled areas and U.S. military facilities in the region, describing the action as a response to "external aggression.” Regional authorities have not yet issued detailed casualty or damage assessments.

Any transition in Iran’s top leadership would represent a pivotal constitutional moment for the Islamic Republic, with potential consequences for domestic political alignment, regional security dynamics, and ongoing diplomatic efforts related to Iran’s nuclear program.