US’s Hegseth claims new Iran Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei injured

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth claimed on March 13, 2026, that Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, was wounded in US-Israeli attacks. Hegseth stated Khamenei was "wounded and likely disfigured" during a Pentagon press conference, but provided no evidence. This follows Khamenei's first public statement since becoming Supreme Leader after his father's assassination on February 28, where he vowed to continue fighting and attack US bases if they weren't closed. The statement was written, not videoed, which Hegseth cited as suspicious. Tensions remain high, with President Trump expressing disapproval of Khamenei's appointment. The conflict has reportedly resulted in over 1,444 deaths and 18,551 injuries in Iran.

In March 2026, the International Energy Agency (IEA) announced the release of nearly 400 million barrels of oil from its strategic reserves, the largest release in its history. This action was taken in response to a significant supply disruption caused by the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran, which began in late February 2026. Iran's retaliatory strikes, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil supply route, drove crude prices above $100 per barrel. The IEA, comprised of 32 member nations, aims to stabilize volatile energy markets with this release, which represents one-third of its total government reserves. The agency believes the current crisis surpasses the impact of the 1991 Gulf War and the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine on global oil markets.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has outlined conditions for ending the ongoing war with the United States and Israel, marking a potential shift in Tehran's stance after nearly two weeks of conflict. Pezeshkian stated on X that ending the war requires recognizing Iran's rights, payment of reparations, and international guarantees against future aggression. This announcement comes as pressure increases on the US to end the costly mission. Iran has retaliated against US assets and disrupted global supplies, including threatening the Strait of Hormuz, in response to military attacks by the US and Israel. Analysts suggest Iran's ability to inflict economic pain will likely determine the war's conclusion.

Chinese analysts believe the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran, initiated with joint air strikes on February 28th, may be difficult to end quickly due to Israel's potential to escalate the conflict. The war, which has already surpassed Iran's previous conflict with Israel, involves retaliatory strikes across the region, with civilian and military casualties reported by both sides. Tehran reports over 1,300 civilian deaths, while Washington confirms injuries to approximately 140 US troops and the death of seven service members. Despite the high tensions and fighting spreading to neighboring countries, analysts doubt the conflict's long-term sustainability and reject the idea that it would benefit China. The conflict began with US-Israeli strikes on Iran, including an oil storage facility in Tehran.

In his first public statement since becoming Iran's Supreme Leader on March 8th, Mojtaba Khamenei vowed to continue blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping channel. The message, broadcast on Iranian state TV, also promised retaliation for Iranians killed in the war with the US and Israel, including his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died in a US-Israeli strike. Khamenei warned neighboring countries to close US bases, stating that Iran would continue targeting them. He claimed to have learned of his appointment as Supreme Leader via state TV. While reports suggest Khamenei was lightly injured in the strike that killed his father, he has not been seen publicly since assuming the role.

In March 2026, despite US President Trump's claims of victory in the US-Israeli war on Iran, Iran's retaliatory strikes against Israel and US assets have continued, disrupting global markets. Following US-Israeli strikes on Tehran that killed Iranian leaders, Iran's Foreign Minister stated that bombings would not impact Iran's ability to wage war. Analysts suggest Iran is employing "asymmetric" warfare tactics due to its conventional military inferiority compared to the US and Israel. This involves unconventional methods like guerrilla tactics, cyberattacks, and the use of proxies to offset conventional weaknesses and exploit vulnerabilities. Experts say that these methods are central to Iran's grand strategy.

Israeli security sources have stated that Israel's attack on Iran lacked a clear plan for regime change, with hopes of a popular uprising considered unrealistic. Despite nearly two weeks of bombing raids and the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's leadership remains. The success of the conflict may depend on the fate of 440kg of enriched uranium, enough for multiple nuclear warheads, buried under a mountain. Sources say that if the regime survives and retains the uranium, Iran may pursue nuclear weapons. The US is reportedly considering a high-risk mission to secure the uranium, and pre-war negotiations included proposals for Iran to surrender it.

Iran has escalated attacks on energy infrastructure and transport in the Middle East, setting ablaze two tankers in Iraqi waters. This action is part of a broader campaign to disrupt energy markets, contributing to oil prices reaching $100 a barrel. Conflicting reports have emerged regarding Iran's stance on allowing India-flagged tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil trade. While one Indian source indicated passage would be permitted, Reuters reported an Iranian source denying this. The attacks and uncertainty surrounding tanker passage are impacting global oil markets.

Chinese analysts believe the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's new supreme leader will likely ensure continuity and stability in the country's policies, particularly regarding its relationship with China. Khamenei, son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was confirmed as the new supreme leader by Iran's Assembly of Experts on Monday. Analysts suggest Khamenei may maintain or even harden his father's hardline stance against the US and Israel, potentially driven by personal grievances stemming from the death of his wife during recent US-Israeli military strikes. This continuity is expected to stabilize ties between Beijing and Tehran, as Khamenei assumes ultimate authority over Iranian state affairs, including foreign policy and the nuclear program.

The article reports on the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, highlighting the Trump administration's inconsistent messaging regarding the war's timeline and objectives. Over the past 10 days, President Trump has given conflicting statements about the war's progress, potential end, and ultimate goals, causing market fluctuations. Initially, Trump suggested a swift conclusion, even hinting at a possible wrap-up, but later walked back those comments, indicating a willingness to intensify strikes if Iran continued to threaten oil tankers. He also stated the goal was to prevent Iran from developing weapons targeting the US, Israel, or allies. The mixed messages have created uncertainty surrounding the conflict's future and potential political ramifications for the Trump administration.

On day 11 of the US-Israel war on Iran, March 10, 2026, intense bombardments continue in Tehran, where hundreds of thousands rallied in support of Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. Despite ongoing attacks, including one on Arak that killed five, Iran vows to continue fighting, rejecting US President Trump's claim of a quick end to the war. Iran accuses the US of intending to partition the country and seize oil. Several nations, including China, Russia, and France, have contacted Iran regarding a ceasefire. Attacks on residential areas in Tehran have resulted in numerous casualties, with Iran reporting over 1,255 deaths and 10,000 injuries. The US is monitoring for potential activation of Iranian sleeper cells within the country.

Following US and Israeli strikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader, triggering a major regional crisis, BRICS has remained silent, failing to issue a joint statement. This silence, despite individual condemnations from members like China, Russia, and Brazil, highlights the bloc's struggle to unify its voice after recent expansion. The inclusion of Iran, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, intended to strengthen BRICS's position in a multipolar world, has instead created internal divisions. Iran's retaliatory strikes against US assets in the region, including in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, further complicate the situation, demonstrating the challenges BRICS faces in achieving consensus amidst conflicting member interests. The expansion, scheduled to take effect in January 2024, appears to have outpaced the bloc's ability to act cohesively.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli attack, Mojtaba Khamenei has been named the new Supreme Leader of Iran in March 2026. In Kano, northern Nigeria, Shia Muslims gathered to mourn the late leader, viewing his death as the silencing of a spiritual teacher and a blow to the "continuation of his father's resistance." Nigerian Shias see their faith as intertwined with Iran's Shia community. The elder Khamenei, who became Supreme Leader in 1989, was seen as a leader of oppressed people globally due to Iran's involvement in issues like Gaza and Palestine. His death has stirred deep emotions among Nigeria's Shia minority.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike, Iran's state media is showcasing pro-Mojtaba Khamenei rallies across the country, with citizens pledging loyalty to the new leader. These displays contrast sharply with earlier celebrations of Ali Khamenei's death, fueled by public anger over decades of repression. Despite an internet blackout, reports suggest some Iranians fear increased repression under Mojtaba, who has strong ties to the IRGC and Basij militia. Mojtaba's appointment follows the strike that killed his father and other family members. The prosecutor general has warned Iranians against cooperating with the US and Israel, signaling a potential crackdown amid the ongoing war.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his son Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has become Iran's new leader. Selected by the Assembly of Experts, Mojtaba assumes power as the Islamic Republic faces what is described as an existential battle. While supporters celebrated his appointment, some protesters voiced opposition, fearing an even harsher regime. Mojtaba, considered an ultraconservative, has worked within his father's government for decades and has close ties to the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The IRGC, which holds significant security and economic power, reportedly supported his candidacy. The war is described as personal, as Mojtaba also lost his mother in the same Israeli strike that killed his father.

Fighting between the U.S., Israel, and Iran has entered its second week, raising significant questions about the conflict's duration, objectives, and economic impact. The war began on February 28th, and there are no signs of it ending soon. Iran is retaliating against Israel, U.S. assets, and neighboring Arab countries. Mediation efforts are reportedly underway, although details are scarce. A key unknown is the stance of Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who succeeded his father after the war's initial strikes. Seen as more hard-line, his intentions regarding negotiations or continued conflict remain unclear. Iran's strategy of regional disruption persists, with attacks reported in Persian Gulf countries.

On March 9, 2026, Mojtaba Khamenei was named Iran's new supreme leader, succeeding his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This transition occurred amidst ongoing attacks on Iran by the US and Israel, with explosions reported in Qom and Tehran. Israeli attacks on Iranian oil facilities earlier caused toxic smoke to spread across Tehran. Iran's military and political leaders have reportedly pledged allegiance to the new supreme leader. Saudi Arabia has reported two deaths amid Iranian counterattacks.

Following a weekend of escalating conflict in the Middle East, Mojtaba Khamenei has assumed leadership in Iran, succeeding his late father. This transition occurs as oil prices surpass $100 a barrel and regional casualties mount. Over the weekend, both sides struck new targets, including civilian infrastructure, with Bahrain accusing Iran of attacking a desalination plant and Israel targeting oil depots in Tehran. The US reported another soldier's death, and Saudi Arabia announced its first fatalities. The conflict, now in its tenth day, has displaced over half a million people in Lebanon and resulted in hundreds of deaths there, with Israel warning of a prolonged war.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike, Iran's Assembly of Experts has reportedly reached a consensus on his successor. According to Assembly member Ayatollah Mohammad-Mahdi Mirbagheri, the selection process faces some remaining obstacles. The 88-member Assembly is constitutionally authorized to choose the Supreme Leader. Israeli military officials have threatened members of the Assembly of Experts against participating in the selection process. Another member of the body, Hojjatoleslam Jafari, expressed hope that the Iranian people will be satisfied with the decision, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei amid escalating conflict, Iran has signaled that his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, is likely to be named the new supreme leader. Ayatollah Hosseinali Eshkevari stated a vote had been cast, and another cleric indicated the announcement would be made by Hosseini Bushehri. Wartime conditions have prevented a public gathering to confirm the selection. The news comes as Israel reportedly struck fuel depots in Tehran, and Bahrain claimed an Iranian attack damaged a desalination plant. US President Donald Trump asserted that Washington should have a say in the selection process, implying potential consequences if the chosen leader doesn't receive US approval.

Iranian state TV announced on Sunday that Mojtaba Khamenei, a son of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been named his successor. Mojtaba Khamenei was considered a potential successor even before his father was killed in an Israeli strike at the start of the war. The strike, which targeted the supreme leader's offices, also killed Mojtaba's wife. Despite being a secretive figure, Mojtaba had long been viewed as a contender for the position. He assumes the role despite never having been elected or appointed to any government position.

Iran's Assembly of Experts has selected a new Supreme Leader to succeed Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a joint US-Israeli strike in late February. While the chosen successor's name has not been publicly announced, the selection was confirmed by multiple members of the Assembly. Israel has warned it will target any successor and those involved in the appointment. Mojtaba Khamenei, the deceased leader's son, was considered a frontrunner, although his appointment faces opposition due to concerns about dynastic succession and the regime's human rights record. The selection process occurs amid escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, including strikes on energy infrastructure across the Gulf and inside Iran, with Russia reportedly providing Iran with intelligence.

An Israeli strike on a Beirut hotel killed at least four people and wounded ten others on Sunday, according to Lebanon's health ministry. Israel stated the strike targeted commanders from Iran's Revolutionary Guards. The strike occurred in central Beirut, hitting a hotel room. This incident follows increased Israeli strikes across Lebanon and ground troop movements into border areas this week. Lebanon was drawn into the conflict after Hezbollah attacked Israel in response to the killing of Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Israeli military announced additional strikes targeting Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut's southern suburbs.

On March 8, 2026, an Israeli attack on a hotel in Beirut, Lebanon killed at least four people and wounded ten. Israel stated the strike targeted key commanders of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Quds Force, claiming they were planning attacks against Israel. The targeted hotel, located in Raouche, was also housing displaced people fleeing the ongoing conflict in southern Lebanon. Lebanon was drawn into the regional war on March 2nd after Hezbollah attacked Israel in response to earlier US-Israeli strikes that killed the Iranian Supreme Leader. This attack marks an escalation of Israeli actions in Lebanon, which began after the collapse of a ceasefire in November 2024.

Recent US and Israeli strikes in Iran target a broader range of sites than previous operations, aiming to weaken the Iranian military and government. The US Central Command reports hitting over 2,000 targets in less than a week, while Israel claims hundreds of strikes across the country, from Tehran to southeastern regions. Targets include Iranian leaders, military bases, weapons factories, state media, and security forces. The extent of the damage is unclear, but one monitoring group describes it as a significant blow, though the emergency leadership retains coercive abilities. Iranian government sources report at least 1,230 deaths, including many children killed in a school bombing. Independent verification of the death toll is difficult due to communication issues.

Iranians gathered in Tehran and other cities for Friday prayers, the first since the start of the US-Israeli war on Iran seven days prior. The worshippers, many holding portraits of the recently assassinated Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, chanted anti-US and anti-Israeli slogans. The gatherings took place during Ramadan, despite heavy bombardment on the capital. Iranian media shared footage of crowds heading to the Grand Mosque of Imam Khomeini in Tehran, mourning Khamenei and expressing support for the government. Similar scenes were reported in other cities across Iran, including Ilam, Borujerd and Zahedan.

Intense Israeli strikes targeted Iran and Lebanon as the US warned of a dramatic surge in bombardment in the Middle East on Thursday, March 5, 2026. The US has been striking Iran for six consecutive days, escalating the conflict. Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah intensified, with Israeli tanks moving to the Lebanese border. Azerbaijan accused Iran of a drone attack and threatened retaliation, signaling a potential expansion of the war. Governments worldwide are scrambling to evacuate citizens stranded across the region as the conflict disrupts travel, including at Dubai International Airport. The escalating conflict raises concerns about regional stability and potential internal destabilization within Iran.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced they dismantled an underground military bunker in Tehran, built by former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to the IDF, the compound served as a base for advancing military activities against Israel and the West. The bunker, located beneath Tehran, contained multiple entrances and meeting rooms. Khamenei and other regime leaders were situated directly above the fortified compound when almost 50 of them were killed during Operation Epic Fury. Khamenei, who had ruled Iran for over 30 years, was killed on the first day of the operation. The strike followed an Israeli-American deception plan, which included misleading messaging to suggest no immediate action was planned.

Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is a potential candidate to succeed his father as the country's paramount ruler. He was considered a contender even before his father's death in an Israeli strike last week. Despite this, Mojtaba has never held an elected or appointed government position. He is described as a secretive figure within the Islamic Republic. Mojtaba Khamenei has not been seen publicly since the Israeli airstrike that killed his 86-year-old father. The circumstances surrounding the succession remain unclear.

In March 2026, Iran's Assembly of Experts is responsible for selecting the nation's next Supreme Leader. The Assembly of Experts is a body within the Iranian government. This follows the precedent set in 1989, when the Assembly elected Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to the position. The selection process is significant because the Supreme Leader holds ultimate authority in Iran's political system. The article highlights the Assembly's crucial role in determining the future leadership of Iran.

Israeli air strikes targeting Iranian security forces continued for a fifth day, as part of a US-Israeli assault that began on Saturday. The attacks struck multiple locations including Tehran, Qom, and Isfahan, damaging residential areas and buildings associated with the Basij and Iran's internal security command. The death toll has surpassed 1,000, with hundreds of children hospitalized and thousands wounded. The IAEA reported visible damage to buildings near the Isfahan nuclear site, but stated that nuclear materials were unaffected and there was no radiological risk. Due to the ongoing attacks, the funeral for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been postponed, citing logistical issues. Iran has launched counterattacks and warned of the destruction of military and economic infrastructure across the Middle East.

Recent US and Israeli airstrikes in Iran have resulted in significant damage, including to the UNESCO-listed Golestan Palace in Tehran. The strikes, which began on Saturday, have targeted numerous government and military sites, reportedly killing nearly 800 people. Iranian media reports that the Golestan Palace sustained damage to windows, doors, and mirrors due to the reverberations from blasts targeting Arag Square. UNESCO confirmed the damage and stated that it had provided the coordinates of World Heritage sites to all parties involved to prevent such incidents. The US military claims to have hit nearly 2,000 targets inside Iran since the operation began.

On the fifth day of the war between Israel and Iran, Israel launched fresh strikes on Tehran and Beirut, while Iranian missiles targeted US bases in the Gulf. Israeli strikes on Tehran, including police stations and IRGC headquarters, resulted in a rising Iranian death toll, estimated between 800 and 1,500. The US and Israel expressed satisfaction with the war's progress, though their objectives remain unclear. Funerals for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, killed in earlier strikes, began in Tehran as senior clerics convened to select his successor, with Mojtaba Khamenei, Ali Khamenei's son and the IRGC's preferred candidate, being the frontrunner. Analysts suggest his appointment would signal a more authoritarian regime and a larger role for the IRGC.

On March 4, 2026, the US and Israel entered the fifth day of strikes against Iran, targeting government, military, civilian, and nuclear-related facilities in Tehran, including the Natanz nuclear facility. Iran has retaliated by launching hundreds of missiles and drones, hitting targets such as the US embassy in Saudi Arabia and near the US consulate in Dubai, escalating tensions in the Gulf. The conflict has spread to Lebanon, where Israel is conducting intense bombardments. As of Wednesday, reports indicate nearly 800 deaths in Iran and 50 in Lebanon. The ongoing conflict has sparked political debate in the US, with questions raised about the initial decision to attack Iran.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in attacks by the US and Israel in March 2026, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has emerged as a leading contender to become the next Supreme Leader of Iran. Mojtaba, a hardline cleric with close ties to the IRGC, has been influential behind the scenes for decades, despite never holding public office or being publicly vetted. His potential succession signals the continued strength of hardline factions within the Iranian government. While he has maintained a low public profile, he has been accused of involvement in the violent suppression of protests. If appointed, it would create a dynastic succession reminiscent of the pre-revolution monarchy.

Iran postponed the funeral of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died in a US-Israeli airstrike, due to anticipated large crowds. The three-day ceremony was originally scheduled to begin at the Imam Khomeini Mosalla mosque in Tehran at 10pm local time on Wednesday. State television announced the delay, citing the "expected unprecedented presence of mourners," and indicated a new time would be announced later. The funeral is expected to draw supporters of the Islamic Republic who oppose US and Israeli actions, which have escalated into a regional war. Khamenei's death has been met with condemnation from Russia and China, but also celebrations from opponents of the Iranian regime.

Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is being considered as a possible successor amidst ongoing conflict. The Israeli airstrike that killed his father and wife has elevated his profile, despite his lack of elected or appointed government positions. Mojtaba, a secretive figure, has not been seen publicly since the attack and is believed to be in hiding. His potential succession has been criticized as resembling a hereditary monarchy, a departure from the Islamic Republic's principles. The possibility of Mojtaba Khamenei assuming the role of Supreme Leader is circulating as American and Israeli airstrikes continue in Iran.

Footage from across Iran has shown the scale of strikes in several cities as the conflict reaches its fourth day. The US and Israel launched attacks on Saturday, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Videos shared on social media, verified by the BBC and news agencies, depict multiple explosions and destruction across the country. The US has also released video footage showing military targets being hit. Iran has responded with a wave of attacks across the region. The attack is believed to be retaliation for the killing of Ayatollah Khamenei, but details on the motivations behind the strike are not yet clear.

As of March 3, 2026, the Middle East is experiencing escalating violence following coordinated US and Israeli attacks on Iran. Key government and symbolic sites in Tehran have been damaged, resulting in over 600 deaths, including Supreme Leader Khamenei. The US has warned of further strikes intended to cripple Iran's military capabilities and halt its nuclear ambitions. In response, Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, threatening any vessels attempting passage, and has launched attacks on US and allied targets across the region, including energy facilities. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz is expected to have significant global economic consequences.

In March 2026, escalating conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel has spread across multiple fronts. The US Embassy in Saudi Arabia was hit by Iranian drones amidst increasing attacks on Iran by the US and Israel. Strikes occurred across Tehran, while Israel conducted a targeted attack on Hezbollah members in Beirut and southern Lebanon. During an Iranian air assault, three US fighter jets were mistakenly downed by Kuwaiti fire. Protests in support of Iran took place in Baghdad. The conflict has resulted in casualties and widespread damage in the region.

In March 2026, amidst ongoing military conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran, President Trump discussed potential leadership changes in Iran following Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's assassination. When asked about a "worst-case scenario," Trump expressed concern that Khamenei's successor could be equally unfavorable to US interests. He suggested the US doesn't want to go through the conflict only to have someone equally bad take over in five years. The US and Israel launched their offensive on February 28, citing the elimination of imminent threats from the Iranian regime as justification, despite international condemnation. Trump has called for Iranian opposition members to take over the government, while other officials downplay regime change as the primary motive.

A drone strike caused a limited fire near the US consulate in Dubai on Tuesday, which has been extinguished. Dubai authorities confirmed the incident and stated that emergency teams responded immediately, reporting no injuries. A US official and Dubai's government media office told the Wall Street Journal that the drone struck the consulate's parking lot. The incident follows a drone strike on the US embassy in Saudi Arabia on Monday and the closure of the US embassy in Kuwait on Tuesday. The US State Department is working to help Americans in the Middle East leave, identifying charter, military, and expanded commercial flight options.

Following drone attacks on U.S. embassies in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, the U.S. State Department has closed its embassies in those two countries. The State Department also issued an urgent advisory, recommending that American citizens immediately depart from 14 unspecified countries. These actions come as tensions escalate in the region, with Iran reportedly increasing retaliatory measures. Simultaneously, the Israeli military announced it has seized additional territory in Lebanon amidst ongoing conflict with Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran. The closures and travel advisory highlight growing concerns about the safety of American personnel and citizens in the Middle East.

Israel's military operation against Iran is aimed at regime change, according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who called on Iranians to overthrow their government after the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The US-Israel joint attack has already killed over 555 people in Iran, including 180 at a girls' school. Netanyahu's comments suggest that Israel seeks regime change from within, but it is unclear how invested Israeli officials are in ensuring a smooth transition. Many Iranians have taken to the streets in protests, united by their opposition to the government. The operation has sparked widespread violence and unrest in Iran. The Israeli government's policy on regime change in Iran appears to be a longstanding goal.

The United States and Israel have launched a military campaign against Iran, leading to escalating strikes and retaliation. These actions have resulted in casualties, a spike in oil prices, and significant geopolitical shocks. China has strongly condemned the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, an event that has destabilized Tehran. Financial markets have reacted negatively, with futures and Asian shares experiencing a sharp sell-off as the conflict continues. The situation is causing turmoil in the Middle East and raising concerns about a major regional escalation.

In early March 2026, the conflict escalated to include Iranian-backed militias as Israeli and American forces launched strikes within Iran. Israel released footage of an attack on Iranian leadership headquarters in Tehran following a large explosion in the capital. Iran retaliated by firing missiles at Jerusalem, wounding five people. Subsequently, Israel conducted strikes on Beirut, Lebanon, after Hezbollah fired missiles across the border. The U.S. military's Central Command confirmed its support of "Operation Epic Fury" with naval operations. The strikes resulted in damage to buildings in both Lebanon and Iran.

On March 2, 2026, Israeli jets bombed Beirut, Lebanon, following a rocket and drone attack by Hezbollah on a military base near Haifa, Israel. Hezbollah claimed responsibility, stating the attack was retaliation for the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, to defend Lebanon, and in response to Israeli aggression. The group cited near-daily Israeli attacks on Lebanon and demanded a withdrawal from occupied territories. Israel responded with airstrikes in southern Beirut, villages in south Lebanon, and the Bekaa Valley, stating it was "vigorously attacking Hezbollah." This exchange marks a significant escalation in the regional conflict between the US and Israel against Iran and its allies.

Oil prices surged after the reported death of Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli air strikes, escalating conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route, experienced near standstill, impacting tanker traffic. This disruption raised concerns about supply shortages and increased import costs, particularly for Asian economies like China, India, Japan, and South Korea, which heavily rely on oil imports. Benchmark Brent crude jumped significantly, reflecting market fears of sustained supply disruption. Iran retaliated with attacks on US military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, further escalating geopolitical tensions in the region.