Damage to historical sites in Iran raises alarm about war’s impact on protected places

Joint US-Israeli air strikes targeted oil storage facilities in and around Tehran on Saturday, March 8, 2026, resulting in a dark haze over the city and the deaths of four Iranian oil distribution employees. The strikes hit four oil storage facilities and an oil transfer and production center in Tehran and Alborz province, causing large fires and oil leaks. Israel claimed the facilities were used to operate military infrastructure, and Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed to continue the assault on Iran. The attacks mark a new phase in the ongoing conflict, which has lasted nine days and resulted in over 1,300 deaths in Iran, 300 in Lebanon, and a dozen in Israel.

The US-Israel war on Iran has entered its second week, prompting international concern. US President Trump claims Iran is being "decimated" but has not ruled out deploying troops, while China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned the war. Iran claims it can sustain the conflict for at least six more months, despite Israeli strikes on Tehran fuel storage complexes. An Israeli strike on Beirut, Lebanon, resulted in casualties. The conflict continues to escalate, with regional implications and international calls for de-escalation.

On Sunday, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar reported missile and drone attacks, as Iran vowed to continue strikes against neighboring Gulf countries. Qatar stated it was targeted the previous day by multiple ballistic and cruise missiles fired from Iran, most of which were intercepted. Saudi Arabia's defense ministry reported intercepting and destroying fifteen drones entering its airspace. Kuwait's military reported responding to hostile drones that penetrated its airspace, with fuel tanks at Kuwait's international airport being targeted. Kuwait's national oil company also announced a precautionary cut to production. These incidents mark the second week of escalating regional conflict.

The article suggests that Russia is observing the escalating conflict involving Iran, anticipating potential long-term benefits. Events depicted in the article include a meeting between the Iranian President and Vladimir Putin in Moscow in January 2025. The article also references a U.S.-Israeli military attack in Tehran in March 2026, as well as reports of Iranian strikes in Dubai around the same time. The death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is also mentioned as occurring in early March 2026. Russia's strategy appears to be one of non-intervention, possibly calculating that the conflict will ultimately strengthen its geopolitical position.

According to a report by Airwars published on March 6, 2026, the United States and Israel have launched a military campaign against Iran at an unprecedented rate. The report states that the initial days of the offensive involved hitting significantly more targets per day than any campaign in recent decades, including the Israeli war in Gaza and the US-led campaign against ISIS. Within the first four days, US and Israeli officials claimed to have struck approximately 4,000 targets across Iran. Airwars notes that the pace of this campaign vastly outpaces other recent US air wars. The analysis comes as US President Donald Trump rejected compromise, demanding Iran's "unconditional surrender."

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.

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.

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.

In March 2026, the head of US Central Command reported that US B-2 bombers conducted strikes against Iranian ballistic missile launchers. The strikes involved the deployment of dozens of 2,000-pound bombs targeting buried launchers. According to the US Central Command, these actions resulted in a 90% reduction in Iranian missile attacks. The commander also stated that an Iranian "drone carrier ship" was currently on fire after being struck. The location of the strikes and the targeted ship were not specified in the report. The reason for the US military action was not stated in the report.

In a 2026 episode of Al Jazeera's "The Take," the podcast examines the unfolding US-Israeli war with Iran, highlighting the accompanying information war. The episode focuses on how "major combat operations" were announced on Truth Social, drawing parallels to the Iraq war and analyzing claims of "threats" and "self-defense." It investigates the potential impact on the Iranian people following the reported death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Iran's subsequent retaliation. The podcast suggests the conflict could reshape the region for decades. The episode, published on March 5, 2026, features Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent Imran Khan and was produced by Alexandra Locke and others.

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.

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.

A news report published on March 4, 2026, alleges that the United States and Israel are supporting separatist groups within Iran. The report claims this support is intended to instigate attacks inside Iran. The alleged objective of this support is to weaken Iran's defenses. The report further suggests this is part of a broader US strategy that could potentially lead to the collapse of the Islamic Republic. The report was presented by Soraya Lennie on NewsFeedReports.

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.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declared that whoever is chosen as Iran's next Supreme Leader will be considered a target for elimination. Katz made the statement on X, asserting that any leader continuing a plan to destroy Israel and threaten the US would be targeted. This threat follows an Israeli strike on a building associated with Iran's Assembly of Experts, the body responsible for selecting the new Supreme Leader. The statement escalates tensions between the two countries amidst ongoing conflict. Iranians are preparing for a farewell ceremony for Khamenei.

This Al Jazeera report, published March 4, 2026, examines the potential resilience of Iran's political system in the face of hypothetical US-Israeli strikes following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader. The report suggests that the US may misunderstand the structure of Tehran's government, which was designed to withstand leadership loss and external pressure. Correspondent Ali Hashem discusses the durability of the Islamic Republic and how far Iran is prepared to go in response to such actions. The analysis focuses on Iran's political structure and its capacity to endure despite potential military actions and leadership changes. The report explores the factors that contribute to Iran's perceived strength and preparedness.

Seventy-four retired U.S. generals and admirals have endorsed the joint U.S.-Israel military operation targeting Iran, according to an open letter published by the Jewish Institute for National Security of America (JINSA). The letter, signed by prominent former military leaders, supports Operations Epic Fury and Roaring Lion, which aim to weaken Iran's ability to threaten U.S. forces and allies in the Middle East. The retired commanders argue that Iran has spent decades threatening American interests and supporting militant groups, leading to the deaths of hundreds of Americans. They believe the current military campaign is a necessary response to Iran's continued efforts to expand its military capabilities and destabilize the region. The letter cites Iran's long history of anti-American rhetoric and actions as justification for the military action.

President Trump stated that individuals the U.S. considered potential future leaders of Iran died in recent strikes. The statement was made amidst uncertainty regarding Iran's future leadership. Trump acknowledged the possibility of Iran ending up with a leader as detrimental as the current Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The timing and location of the strikes were not specified in the provided context. The reason for the U.S. considering these individuals as potential leaders was also not detailed.

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.

The Middle East conflict intensified as Israel and the US launched strikes against Iran, targeting command facilities, state offices, and missile sites. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israel and US interests across the Gulf region. The escalating violence has resulted in hundreds of deaths and billions of dollars in damage, primarily in Iran, raising concerns about a global economic crisis due to soaring energy prices. US President Trump stated he rejected Iran's attempt to negotiate and claimed significant damage to Iranian infrastructure. Iran denied seeking negotiations and called on the UN Security Council to intervene, while threatening further retaliation against the US and Israel. The conflict expanded with attacks on key Iranian sites, including a building used by the committee that chooses the Supreme Leader's successor.

Following US-Israeli air strikes on Iran, including the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and subsequent retaliatory attacks, China is expected to adjust its relationship with Israel. China condemned the initial strikes as a violation of Iran's sovereignty and warned of regional destabilization. Analysts believe China will likely maintain its "balanced diplomacy" in the Middle East but pursue a "strategic rebalancing" to adapt to the altered security landscape. The situation presents diplomatic risks for China, requiring careful strategic calculation as it navigates the escalating tensions between Iran, Israel, and the US in the region.

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.

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.

Iranian state media confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Sunday, March 1, 2026. Khamenei, who consolidated theocratic power in Iran, led the country into confrontations with Israel and the United States over its nuclear program. The death follows reported US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Damage is visible at Khamenei's official residence in Tehran. Mourning gatherings have been held by government supporters in Tehran and in Beirut, Lebanon. A missile launched from Iran struck Jerusalem, causing damage.

On March 2, 2026, Qatar announced its air force downed two Iranian SU-24 fighter jets and intercepted seven ballistic missiles and five drones fired by Iran. This action follows US and Israeli attacks on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliatory strikes across the Middle East. Qatar condemned Iran's targeting of its territory, calling it "reckless and irresponsible." Iran's actions are in response to attacks that killed hundreds, including senior officials like Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The downing of the aircraft marks a significant military escalation in the spiraling conflict, potentially signaling the beginning of air-to-air combat.

A joint US and Israeli attack on Iran has escalated into a widespread conflict across the Middle East. Within a 10-hour period, strikes and casualties were reported in at least nine countries. US and Israeli warplanes launched attacks across Iran and Lebanon, while Iran retaliated with attacks on oil infrastructure and other targets stretching from the Gulf of Oman to Cyprus. Damage was reported in Kuwait, the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, including an attack on a British military base in Cyprus. The US military reported that Kuwait mistakenly shot down three American fighter jets during an Iranian attack. The US President has called for Iranians to overthrow their leaders, indicating the air campaign could continue for weeks. The Iranian Red Crescent Society reported over 500 deaths in Iran.

Israeli Minister Amichai Chikli outlined a U.S.-Israeli mission in Iran with two main goals: removing existential threats and creating conditions for regime change. The immediate threat includes destroying Iranian ballistic missiles capable of reaching Israeli cities. While the IDF and U.S. Army won't replace the regime, the mission aims to empower the Iranian people to "regain their freedom." Former President Trump encouraged Iranians to take over their government after U.S. and Israeli military operations conclude. A U.S. official confirmed that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in an Israeli strike in Tehran as part of "Operation Epic Fury." Chikli envisions an Iran aligned with the West, potentially becoming an ally to Israel, the U.S., and other nations in the region.

The US and Israel launched attacks on Iran, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, escalating tensions in the Middle East. Iran has vowed retaliation, drawing regional powers into the conflict. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, and senior cleric Alireza Arafi will lead Iran in the transitional period. Donald Trump expressed willingness to negotiate with the remaining Iranian leadership. Elsewhere, the UK's RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus was hit by a suspected drone strike, causing minor damage. In the UK, new asylum rules designate refugee status as temporary, lasting 30 months, and the Green Party's membership surpassed 200,000 after a byelection victory. Concerns are also rising about the potential impact of data centers on the UK's greenhouse gas emissions.

Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, US officials are reportedly skeptical that a regime change in Iran is likely in the near future. Despite President Trump's call for Iranian patriots to "take back" their country, three US officials familiar with intelligence suggest that Iran's opposition is unlikely to topple the current theocratic government. While not completely ruling out the possibility due to ongoing US and Israeli air strikes and internal unrest, officials consider a near-term regime change improbable. The Iranian President, along with other officials, have temporarily assumed the duties of the supreme leader. The US and Israeli operation aimed to cripple Iran's ballistic missile and nuclear programs, with some US officials suggesting toppling the government as a goal.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, died at age 86 following a US-Israeli strike on his compound in Tehran. The strike, confirmed by satellite imagery showing heavy damage, occurred on Saturday and was announced by US President Donald Trump. Khamenei's daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter were also reportedly killed in the attack. Iran has declared 40 days of mourning. Khamenei, who ruled for 36 years after succeeding Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989, was a polarizing figure, both revered and feared for his role in maintaining the Islamic Republic and building Iran into a powerful anti-US force. Reports indicate that some Iranians grieved while others celebrated his death.

In a coordinated attack by the US and Israel on Saturday, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed, as confirmed by Iranian state media on Sunday. The strikes also resulted in the deaths of Khamenei's daughter, son-in-law, and grandson, along with other senior Iranian figures. Among those killed was Ali Shamkhani, the secretary of Iran's Defence Council and a close advisor to Khamenei who oversaw nuclear program negotiations. President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned Khamenei's killing as a declaration of war against Muslims. Shamkhani had previously survived an Israeli strike in June 2025 and had recently been appointed secretary of the Defence Council, which coordinates Iran's defense and national security.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, was reportedly assassinated in American and Israeli strikes. News of the event triggered contrasting reactions within Iran. Large groups of people gathered to celebrate Khamenei's death, expressing disbelief and joy. Simultaneously, other groups assembled to mourn the loss of the Supreme Leader. The reported assassination and subsequent public reactions highlight the deep divisions within Iranian society regarding its leadership. The event's impact on Iranian politics and regional stability remains to be seen.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran faces a precarious situation with internal divisions and mounting external pressures. While some celebrated, hoping for an end to clerical rule, others mourned and demanded retribution. Despite maintaining military power, the regime faces a growing list of dead leaders, including high-ranking military officials, straining its leadership and resources. Simultaneously, Iran's regional relationships are deteriorating, with its Gulf partners criticizing its actions and accusing it of playing into the hands of the US. The Strategic Council on Foreign Relations pleaded with Gulf states to unite against the US, but the UAE countered that Iran's aggression is self-isolating. The article suggests that without a change in direction, the Iranian regime risks a breakdown in civil order.

On March 1, 2026, the United States and Israel conducted a large attack in Iran that resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The New York Times reported on the immediate aftermath of the attack and the reactions of ordinary Iranians. The report, led by Iran bureau chief Erika Solomon, focused on how Iranians are responding to the sudden end of Khamenei's authoritarian rule. The report also examined the uncertainty surrounding Iran's future following this significant event. The video report aimed to provide insight into the situation on the ground in Iran following the strikes.

Following President Trump's claim of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death, speculation has arisen regarding his potential successor as Iran's Supreme Leader. The central question is who might assume this powerful role and continue Khamenei's policies. While the article doesn't confirm Khamenei's death, it focuses on the succession possibilities if the claim is true. The article implies the selection process is crucial due to the Supreme Leader's significant influence within Iran's political and religious structures. The article's purpose is to explore potential candidates and the implications of their ascendance to the position of Supreme Leader.

In a video posted on March 1, 2026, US President Donald Trump vowed to continue military attacks on Iran until "all objectives are achieved," framing the conflict as a response to an existential threat to the US. Trump stated that Iran, if armed with long-range missiles and nuclear weapons, would pose a dire threat, though no evidence has been presented to support Iran's development of such weapons. The attacks, launched alongside Israel, followed the deaths of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other high-ranking officials. Trump acknowledged the deaths of three US military personnel amid Iranian retaliation and predicted more casualties, promising to avenge their deaths. This statement contrasts with earlier interviews where Trump appeared open to diplomatic solutions.

Following the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in U.S. and Israeli strikes on Sunday, March 1, 2026, some Iranians celebrated openly in the streets. However, many also expressed fear and uncertainty about the country's future. State media showed large crowds mourning Khamenei, while some who participated in past anti-government protests said the security presence was too strong for new demonstrations. The Basij paramilitary was heavily present in Tehran, suppressing public displays of celebration. The strikes, which also killed top military leaders, have stirred complex emotions within a divided Iranian society, leaving people living "between hope and fear."

Following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, world leaders are reacting cautiously amid growing fears of a wider war. The strikes, including one near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran, occurred on Saturday. European leaders convened emergency meetings in response to the escalating situation. The international community is concerned about the potential for a broader conflict in the region. The strikes have prompted increased diplomatic activity as leaders seek to de-escalate tensions.

On February 28, 2026, Israel and the United States launched a joint military attack on Iran, with explosions reported in Tehran near University Street, the Jomhouri area, and Seyyed Khandan. According to a US official, the operation aimed to pressure Iran into a nuclear deal, amidst a large US military presence in the region. Israel's Defence Minister stated the attack was a preemptive measure to eliminate threats to Israel. In response, sirens sounded in Israel, prompting the military to issue alerts and close airspace. The US Embassy in Qatar also implemented shelter-in-place protocols for its personnel and advised citizens to do the same. The Associated Press reported that strikes occurred near the offices of Iran's Supreme Leader.

US President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States has initiated "major combat operations" in Iran. This announcement follows a statement from Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz, who said Israel launched a "pre-emptive" attack on the country. According to the BBC, military action against Iran had been anticipated for several weeks. The timing and specific reasons for the escalation were not immediately clear, but the developments signal a significant shift in the region. The combined actions by the US and Israel mark a notable escalation of tensions with Iran.

In February 2026, reports emerged that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in joint US-Israeli air strikes on his compound in Iran. Khamenei assumed leadership in 1989 after the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who led the Islamic Revolution. While Khomeini provided the revolution's ideology, Khamenei developed Iran's military and paramilitary forces, extending its influence beyond its borders. His distrust of the West, particularly the United States, stemmed from the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, during which Western countries supported Saddam Hussein. This shaped his belief that Iran needed constant defense against external and internal threats, leading to the rise of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a powerful institution.