National media reported that citizens met in squares and avenues waving Iranian flags and carrying images of the leader, in displays of mourning and condemnation of what they described as foreign aggression.

Numerous demonstrators gathered at Enghelab Square, in this capital, where they chanted slogans against Washington and Tel Aviv, while reiterating their support for the institutions of the Islamic Republic.

Hundreds of people gathered at the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatimah, in the holy city of Qom, where they condemned the United States and Israel and demanded a strong response to the assassination.

In Mashhad, a black flag was raised over the dome of the Imam Reza Shrine as a sign of mourning, while worshippers and pilgrims expressed their grief over the loss of the religious and political leader.

Similar scenes were reported in other localities of the country, amid a climate of growing tension.

State television confirmed early Sunday morning the death of Ayatollah Khamenei in attacks launched on Saturday.

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