The Coordination Framework, a ruling alliance of Shiite groups with varying degrees of links to Iran, said "with deep sorrow and profound grief, we mourn the passing of the martyred leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei."

His "blood will remain a guiding light for all generations" and "the curse will continue to haunt the murderous Zionists for all time," the alliance added.

Al-Sadr said in a statement "we extend our condolences to the Islamic world," and declared a three-day period of mourning.