A major regional crisis has erupted following a coordinated U.S.-Israeli military operation that resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The escalating conflict has prompted urgent responses from Japan's government and raised concerns for Japanese nationals and expats throughout the Middle East. According to NHK, the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran that killed Khamenei and continued striking Iranian targets afterward. Iran has retaliated by claiming attacks on U.S. military forces, creating fears of wider regional conflict. U.S. President Donald Trump stated in media interviews that the operation is proceeding more smoothly than planned and expressed willingness to negotiate with Iran's new leadership. In response to Khamenei's death, Iran established a "Temporary Council" on March 1st to manage national governance until a new Supreme Leader is selected, NHK reported. Iranian President has declared that retaliation is both a "legitimate right and duty," signaling continued military responses. The attacks have already affected multiple countries in the region, with reports of explosions and missile interceptions ongoing. For expats in Japan, the crisis has several important implications. Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi has directed relevant ministries to monitor the situation closely, with the Foreign Ministry now considering evacuation support for Japanese nationals in affected areas. The government is receiving continuous updates and issuing necessary instructions from the Prime Minister's official residence. The economic impact could be significant for Japan and its residents. Energy experts warn that if Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz for an extended period, it would create a "critical problem" for Japan's energy security, according to specialists interviewed by NHK. Japan relies heavily on Middle Eastern oil imports that transit through this strategic waterway. This could potentially affect fuel prices and energy costs for households and businesses in Japan. Japanese nationals currently in the Middle East are experiencing the conflict firsthand. A Japanese man in his 30s living in Dubai told NHK that explosion sounds and interceptor missile launches have been occurring every one to two hours since the previous night and continue at present. This testimony underscores the real danger facing expats and travelers in the region. Protests have erupted in neighboring countries following the attacks, with clashes between demonstrators and security forces resulting in nine deaths, according to reports. The regional instability extends beyond Iran's borders, affecting the broader Middle East where many Japanese companies operate and Japanese expats reside. Experts analyzing the situation note that the U.S. and Israeli objectives appear focused on weakening Iran's regime and potentially achieving regime change. Reports suggest that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman may have advised Trump to proceed with the operation, indicating complex regional dynamics at play. Japanese political parties discussed the crisis during NHK's Sunday debate program, with ruling and opposition party leaders exchanging views on ensuring the safety of Japanese nationals abroad and managing economic impacts on Japan. The consensus emphasized the need for comprehensive government response and support measures. For expats living in Japan, staying informed about developments is crucial, particularly those with travel plans to the Middle East or business connections to the region. The Japanese government's Foreign Ministry website provides updated travel advisories and safety information. Those with family or colleagues in affected areas should maintain regular contact and be prepared for potential evacuation scenarios. The situation remains fluid and dangerous, with both sides threatening further military action. Expats should monitor official Japanese government announcements and consider how energy price fluctuations might affect their household budgets in coming weeks. The crisis represents one of the most serious Middle Eastern conflicts in recent years, with implications extending far beyond the immediate region to affect global energy markets and international stability.