This article from El País reflects on the recent military actions against Iran that have culminated in the death of the country's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, attributed to Israeli airstrikes. The piece criticizes both the military intervention by the United States and Israel, labeling it a violation of international law, while also addressing the significance of Khamenei’s leadership in a regime that has long been criticized for human rights abuses. The author argues that while Khamenei's rule has earned its place in history’s judgment, his death is not a legitimate outcome of warfare, and instead, he should have faced justice in a court of law.

The article places emphasis on the responsibility of international actors who chose military intervention, urging them to ensure that the political vacuum created by Khamenei's demise does not lead to Iran becoming another failed state. It warns against hasty military solutions that disregard legitimate legal processes, highlighting the dangers of resorting to military measures without clear outcomes or governance plans. The narrative positions the act against Khamenei as not only an attack on an individual but as a complex turning point in Iranian history that could shape the nation’s future.

In conclusion, the piece critiques the approach taken by leaders such as Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu, suggesting that their strategy of seeking quick retribution and justice after Khamenei's death may set a dangerous precedent. It calls for a contemplative approach that honors international law and recognizes the profound implications of regime change through violent means, thereby maintaining that a thoughtful, lawful response is crucial for the stability and future of Iran and the region at large.