President Mirziyoyev Extends Condolences to Iran Following Death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has sent a formal message of condolence to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian following the death of the country’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The message was released by the Iranian Embassy in Tashkent on 2 March.

In the letter, the President stated that the news of the passing of Iran’s Supreme Spiritual Leader, along with several members of his family, has "deeply saddened our hearts." Mirziyoyev noted that throughout his decades-long tenure, Ayatollah Khamenei made significant contributions to strengthening Iranian statehood, ensuring social stability, and preserving national values.

The President specifically highlighted Khamenei’s role in fostering bilateral ties, noting that his memory would endure as someone who made an immense contribution to the development of comprehensive cooperation and long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships between Uzbekistan and Iran. Mirziyoyev expressed sincere sympathy to President Pezeshkian and the Iranian people, emphasizing Uzbekistan's solidarity during this period of national mourning.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was 86, had served as the Supreme Leader of Iran since 1989 and previously held the office of President from 1981 to 1989. According to reports released by the Iranian diplomatic mission, Khamenei was killed on 28 February following strikes conducted by the United States and Israel.

Official Iranian channels have confirmed the details of the incident, which has sparked significant diplomatic fallout across the region. Uzbekistan’s response aligns with its standing diplomatic protocol regarding the passing of a foreign head of state and religious leader.