Iran launches new attacks at Gulf Arab countries as it keeps up pressure on the region

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in an Israeli strike, his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been named the new Supreme Leader of Iran. The announcement was made on Iranian state TV on Monday, March 9, 2026, stating Mojtaba was selected based on "strong" votes. Celebrations reportedly erupted in Tehran after the announcement. Mojtaba Khamenei, who has never held an elected or appointed government position, was considered a potential successor prior to his father's death. The appointment comes amidst a military campaign involving the U.S. and Israel, which has included strikes on Tehran and elsewhere, and has sent oil prices soaring.

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 death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has been elevated to the position, a move presented by Iran as a sign of stability. However, Mojtaba's ascension introduces uncertainty due to his relative obscurity both domestically and internationally. Unlike his predecessors, he lacks significant public presence and experience, having primarily worked behind the scenes. His appointment was reportedly backed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), suggesting a potential strengthening of the security state. The IRGC reportedly overcame internal opposition and concerns regarding Mojtaba's qualifications and health to secure his leadership. This transition occurs during a period of heightened tensions in the Middle East.

Following the assassination of Ali Khamenei, Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed as Iran's new Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts on March 9, 2026. US President Donald Trump, who had warned against this selection amidst escalating US-Israeli conflict with Iran, expressed his disapproval and suggested the new leader's tenure may be short-lived, hinting at a similar fate to his father. Trump declined to reveal his plans for dealing with the new Iranian leader but stated his unhappiness with the appointment. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham echoed Trump's sentiment, suggesting a similar fate for Mojtaba Khamenei as his father. The US and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran on February 28.

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.

The US and Israel launched airstrikes on targets across Iran on Monday, marking an escalation in the ongoing Middle East conflict, now in its second week. These strikes coincided with Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting Israel, US bases in the Middle East, and Gulf energy infrastructure. The attacks and counter-attacks occurred as large crowds gathered in Tehran to support Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's newly appointed supreme leader. The reason for the strikes is the ongoing conflict between the involved nations. The strikes and public support for the new leader signal a deepening crisis in the region.

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.

On March 6, 2026, the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran entered its seventh day, marked by continued attacks across Iran and the Gulf region. The US and Israel, under "Operation Epic Fury," claim to be crippling Iran's military, having conducted thousands of strikes and allegedly destroyed a significant portion of Iran's air defenses. The conflict has already cost billions of dollars, largely unbudgeted. Tensions are escalating, particularly regarding the succession of Iran's Supreme Leader after his reported death in a US-Israeli strike, with the US President expressing intentions to influence the selection. Iran has rejected negotiations with the US and warned against a potential ground invasion, while the US reports a significant decrease in Iranian missile and drone attacks.

In March 2026, the United States and Israel intensified military actions against Iran, while Iran launched attacks on Israeli and US bases. A US submarine sank an Iranian warship off the coast of Sri Lanka, resulting in numerous casualties. The conflict escalated following an Israeli strike that killed Iran's Supreme Leader. The US Defense Secretary indicated the war had "only just begun," while President Trump claimed the US may have influenced the timing of Israeli strikes. Israel also initiated new strikes in Lebanon. The conflict has resulted in damage to Iranian infrastructure and casualties, as evidenced by images of destroyed facilities and unexploded projectiles.

On March 5, 2026, Iranian media reported that missiles fired by the United States and Israel struck two schools in Parand, a town southwest of Tehran. The attack, which damaged classrooms and nearby residential units, occurred six days after a prior strike on a girls' school in Minab that killed 165 people. Iranian authorities attributed the Minab attack to the US and Israel, who launched a war on Iran, with the US claiming unawareness of hitting a school and Israeli sources alleging the site's proximity to a military base. An Al Jazeera investigation disputed these claims, showing the school was separate from the adjacent military site. The attacks have ignited exchanges of fire across the Middle East.

The ongoing Iran war has caused widespread damage and casualties across the Middle East and beyond. Missile strikes, drone attacks, and shrapnel have impacted numerous countries, leading to embassy closures and economic disruptions. A US submarine reportedly sank an Iranian warship off the coast of Sri Lanka. Many governments are urging their citizens to evacuate Middle Eastern countries as airspaces close and travel routes become impassable. Within Iran, at least 1,045 people have died, with a major incident involving a strike on a school in Minab. US-Israeli strikes have targeted Iranian nuclear infrastructure, government buildings, and leadership compounds, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

In March 2026, Donald Trump stated his desire to be "involved" in choosing Iran's next supreme leader, following the death of Ali Khamenei. Trump voiced opposition to Khamenei's son, Mojtaba, assuming the role. He expressed a preference for a leader similar to Venezuela's Delcy Rodriguez, who has allowed US influence in Venezuela after Nicolas Maduro's removal. Trump believes such a leader would be more amenable to US interests. However, analysts note the significant differences between Iran and Venezuela, including Iran's ongoing conflict with the US and Israel, and the religious qualifications required for the supreme leader position. Iranian officials have denied any negotiations with the US.

On March 5, 2026, Iran denied Turkish claims that it fired a ballistic missile towards Turkish airspace. Turkiye's Defence Ministry stated that a missile launched from Iran, after passing through Syrian and Iraqi airspace, was intercepted by NATO air and missile defense systems over the eastern Mediterranean. According to Turkiye, the missile was heading towards Turkish airspace, but caused no casualties. Iran's Armed Forces insisted they respect Turkiye's sovereignty and did not launch any missiles. Turkiye has warned against escalating the conflict and reserves the right to respond to hostile actions, while consulting with NATO allies and issuing warnings to prevent future incidents.

Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US and Israeli strike on Tehran, his funeral has been postponed due to ongoing intense strikes across the country. Iranian authorities cited the need for infrastructure preparation amidst high demand from people wanting to attend the three-day event. In response to Khamenei's death, Iran has launched missiles and drones at Israel and Gulf states with US bases. A member of the Assembly of Experts stated they are nearing the selection of Khamenei's successor. The conflict has also resulted in the sinking of an Iranian warship, the Iris Dena, in international waters, with numerous casualties.

In March 2026, an air attack struck the Assembly of Experts building in Qom, Iran. NewsFeedVideos documented the destruction following the attack. The Assembly of Experts is a significant body responsible for selecting the successor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who was assassinated. Qom, the location of the Assembly building, is situated south of Tehran. The attack's impact on the Assembly's operations or the succession process remains unclear.

Iran has postponed a planned farewell ceremony for its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes on Saturday. The three-day program was scheduled to begin Wednesday at 10 p.m. local time at Imam Khomeini Prayer Hall, where large crowds were expected to gather. The postponement followed widespread requests to participate and the need for adequate infrastructure and facilities. No additional reason for the postponement was given, and it is unclear when the ceremony will be rescheduled. Ayatollah Khamenei's death triggers a closely watched succession process overseen by Iran's Assembly of Experts, which will heavily influence its outcome. The ceremony's postponement comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel.

On March 4, 2026, a ballistic missile fired from Iran was destroyed by NATO air defenses over the Mediterranean Sea as it approached Turkish airspace after traversing Iraq and Syria. The Turkish Ministry of National Defence reported the incident, stating that the missile was intercepted before entering Turkish territory, causing no casualties. Turkey has protested to Iran, warning against escalating the conflict, and NATO condemned Iran's actions, reaffirming its support for Turkey. The missile's intended target remains unknown. The United States Defence Secretary stated that the event is not expected to trigger NATO's Article 5.

A ballistic missile launched from Iran towards Turkish airspace via Iraq and Syria was intercepted and destroyed by NATO air defense systems on Wednesday. Turkish officials reported the incident, stating the missile was engaged and neutralized over the eastern Mediterranean. While the intended target remains unspecified by the defense ministry, one official claimed it was aimed at a base in Greek Cyprus but strayed off course. Fragments of the interceptor missile fell in the Dortyol district of southern Turkey, near the Syrian border. No casualties were reported as a result of the incident.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump did not rule out deploying ground troops to Iran amid ongoing US-Israeli strikes. Military experts, however, believe a full-scale invasion is unlikely. Instead, they anticipate targeted special operations, such as sabotage or intelligence gathering missions, followed by rapid extraction. Analysts cite Iran's complex geopolitical environment, rugged terrain, and dense population as factors making a traditional invasion impractical. While Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth confirmed no US troops are currently in Iran, he also left the option for deployment open, suggesting a limited, targeted approach rather than a large-scale occupation.

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.

Amidst the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran, the Trump administration is reportedly in talks with Kurdish opposition groups to potentially arm them and incite an uprising within Iran. According to media reports, the CIA has a history of working with Kurdish groups in the region, including funding and training fighters in Iraq and Syria. Kurdish rebels have long opposed Tehran, conducting attacks in Iran's Kurdistan province. Analysts warn that such a plan could further destabilize Iran and may not be well-integrated into a broader strategy. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has also targeted Kurdish positions in western Iran during the conflict.

Mojtaba Khamenei is the son of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and is being discussed as a possible successor. The article focuses on the potential implications of his selection. The discussion arises after a strike on a compound on Saturday killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This potential succession is significant because it could provoke anger among Iranians who desire political change. The article suggests that the selection of Mojtaba Khamenei could be a pivotal moment for Iran's future, given the existing desire for change.

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.

Amidst escalating conflict, Iran faces significant internal turmoil. US airstrikes have caused substantial casualties and targeted key government buildings in Tehran and Qom, including the Assembly of Experts, the body responsible for selecting a new supreme leader after the assassination of Ali Khamenei. The attacks have disrupted government functions and fueled a power struggle over the future direction of the country. Israel appears to have air superiority over Tehran, further destabilizing the situation. The chaos raises questions about the survival of the Iranian government and the evolving objectives of the US military intervention.

In a press briefing at the Pentagon on March 2, 2026, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed the widening conflict in Iran. Hegseth asserted that the conflict is "not endless" and declared, "We fight to win." When questioned about the timeframe for the conflict, Hegseth stated that President Trump has the authority to determine its duration, suggesting a potential range of weeks. The briefing also included Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine, who participated in the discussion and answered questions. The purpose of the briefing was to provide an update on the ongoing situation in Iran and address concerns about the duration of the conflict.

Following joint US-Israeli strikes in Iran, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated the US aims to destroy Iran's navy, ballistic missile production, and nuclear weapon capabilities. Hegseth indicated the US does not plan to pursue a democratic transition in Iran and avoided providing a timeline for the operation, while emphasizing the US would not get "bogged down." President Trump stated he wouldn't rule out sending ground troops "if they were necessary." General Dan Caine, Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the US has established air superiority over Iran, but expects additional losses and that the operation will not be quick. These remarks are the first from US officials since the strikes began, which killed Iran's Supreme Leader.

Pete Hegseth stated at a Pentagon press conference that the U.S., under President Trump, is "finishing" a long-standing war with Iran, citing past Iranian actions against America. This announcement comes as a fourth U.S. service member has been confirmed killed. The Pentagon briefed the media on Trump's Iran strikes amid demands from Democrats for a Congressional vote to limit the president's war powers. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates that only 25% of Americans support military action in Iran, with over half believing Trump's use of force is excessive. The poll also showed that nearly half of respondents would be less supportive of the campaign if gas prices increased. Simultaneously, Israel announced attacks on Tehran and Beirut, issuing evacuation warnings in Beirut.

In a news report published on March 2, 2026, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated that the United States is "finishing" a war with Iran, despite not initiating it. Hegseth attributed the conflict to previous attacks by Iran on Americans in the region. The statement implies a continued or escalated military approach under President Donald Trump's administration. The comments suggest the US views its actions as a response to Iranian aggression, rather than an act of instigation. The remarks were reported by NewsFeed.

Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, refuted US media reports on March 2, 2026, claiming he sought to resume nuclear talks with the United States through Omani mediators. This denial follows a Wall Street Journal report stating Larijani's push occurred after the US and Israel killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Larijani stated Iran would not negotiate with the US and criticized former President Trump's policies, accusing him of prioritizing Israel and endangering American soldiers. The US and Israel have continued attacks across Iran, while Iran has responded by targeting US assets in the Middle East. Iran's Foreign Minister has condemned the killing of Khamenei as terrorism in a letter to the UN, describing the attacks as a dangerous escalation.

This article from the Associated Press examines the evolving and conflicting statements made by President Trump and his administration regarding Iran. It highlights instances where the administration issued urgent warnings about Iran's nuclear ambitions, even after previously claiming to have significantly hampered their nuclear program through military action. The article points to inconsistencies in messaging, such as Trump's threats of military strikes following Iranian protests in January, which were later retracted based on assurances that were contradicted by international observers. The analysis focuses on the discrepancies in the administration's public pronouncements on Iran's nuclear capabilities and its actions within the country.

Thousands of mourners gathered in Tehran on Sunday following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a US-Israeli attack. The attack, which began on Saturday, aimed to overthrow the Iranian government. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) vowed a severe retaliation against the US and Israel, threatening a major operation targeting both countries and their regional bases. Further explosions were reported in Doha, Dubai, and Manama, and sirens sounded in Israel as the Israeli military responded to Iranian missile fire. President Trump warned of unprecedented force against Iran if it retaliates. Khamenei had been Iran's supreme leader since 1989.

A joint US-Israeli attack has severely crippled Iran's military leadership, resulting in the deaths of key figures including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The attack, which followed compromised Iranian security and intelligence gathering by the CIA, involved strikes on Khamenei's compound in Tehran. In response, Iran is launching retaliatory strikes using drones and ballistic missiles against Israel, US bases, and Middle Eastern countries. While the volume of Iranian attacks is substantial, their effectiveness is limited, and US and Israeli forces are prioritizing the dismantling of Iran's offensive capabilities. The attacks have extended to Oman, marking the sixth Arab country targeted. The extent of Iran's military response is expected to be less coordinated due to the loss of command and control.

On March 1, 2026, the second day of US-Israeli attacks on Iran resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and top security officials. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks targeting Israeli military assets and US bases in the Middle East. The attacks inside Iran also killed high-ranking military officials, including the IRGC commander-in-chief and armed forces' chief of staff. A council consisting of the president, head of the judiciary, and a Guardian Council jurist will temporarily assume leadership duties. The death toll from an attack on a girls' school in southern Iran rose to 148. Supporters of Khamenei have gathered in Iranian cities to mourn his death.

According to US President Donald Trump, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, has died following US and Israeli airstrikes. Iran has not confirmed the death of the 86-year-old, who has held the powerful position for three decades since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. As Supreme Leader, Khamenei was head of state, commander-in-chief, and held significant influence over public policy and elections. Born in 1939, Khamenei rose to prominence as a critic of the Shah, facing imprisonment and exile before becoming a key figure in the post-revolution leadership. His weekly sermons broadcast nationwide solidified his position. His death, if confirmed, could lead to an uncertain future for Iran and the region.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli attack in March 2026, Iran faces the critical task of selecting a new Supreme Leader. The Assembly of Experts, an 88-member clerical body, will convene to choose Khamenei's successor, a process they have undertaken only once before. The selection occurs amidst heightened tensions, with Iran retaliating against Gulf countries and the US threatening further strikes. The attacks, which also killed several senior Iranian leaders, occurred despite recent diplomatic efforts regarding Iran's nuclear program. The new Supreme Leader will assume power at a time when the US has pledged to dismantle Iran's ruling structure.

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.

In a recent military operation, President Trump authorized targeted strikes against Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, marking a significant shift in his approach to Iran. This action contrasts with his stance eight months prior when he rejected an Israeli plan to kill Khamenei due to concerns about regional destabilization. The recent operation, conducted in collaboration with Israel, resulted in the deaths of Khamenei, the defense minister, and the commander of the Revolutionary Guard, as confirmed by Iranian state TV. Trump announced Khamenei's death and framed the operation as an opportunity for the Iranian people to reclaim their country. This represents a notable escalation in Trump's willingness to use military force against Iran compared to his earlier reluctance.

A coordinated US-Israeli strike targeted Iran on Saturday, reportedly killing several top Iranian leaders, including the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The operation involved a precision strike on a key target in Tehran, believed to be Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s compound, alongside a broader offensive using US-deployed kamikaze drones. US Central Command confirmed the use of these one-way attack drones, modeled after Iranian Shahed drones, for the first time in combat during "Operation Epic Fury." The attack, described as a "wildly bold daytime attack," targeted Iranian military, government, and intelligence sites, catching senior leadership off guard. Former President Trump announced that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei had been killed in the strike.

On February 28, 2026, Donald Trump claimed on Truth Social that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Trump stated the 86-year-old Khamenei could not evade US intelligence and tracking systems. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also claimed there were "growing signs" of Khamenei's death, and Reuters cited an Israeli official reporting the body's location. However, Iranian news agencies Tasnim and Mehr reported that Khamenei remained in command, and an official from Khamenei's office accused enemies of "mental warfare." As of the report, there has been no official confirmation from Tehran regarding Khamenei's death.

Donald Trump claimed that Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in a joint US-Israeli military operation launched on Saturday. Trump stated the operation, involving missile strikes and airstrikes, aims for regime change in Iran. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested Khamenei was dead and that his body had been recovered, while Israeli officials reported strikes against Iran's nuclear program. Trump claimed that many Iranian leaders were also killed, and that the Iranian military is seeking immunity. Iran's foreign minister initially claimed Khamenei and the president were alive, but Khamenei has not been heard from since the strikes began. The strikes have initiated a new regional conflict in the Middle East.

The US and Israel have launched a joint attack on Iran, with explosions reported in Tehran and other cities including Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, and Kermanshah. The attacks began around 09:30 Tehran time, leading to the closure of Iranian airspace. US President Donald Trump confirmed US military involvement, stating the objective is to eliminate threats from the Iranian regime and prevent them from obtaining nuclear weapons. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed this message, urging Iranians to overthrow their government and promising joint action to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear power. Israel's defense minister has declared a state of emergency across Israel.

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.

Following reported Israeli strikes targeting Iranian leadership infrastructure in Tehran, the fate of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is currently unknown. The strikes heavily damaged Khamenei's fortified compound, including his residence and the House of Leadership, with some areas reduced to rubble. While Israeli officials are assessing the results and haven't confirmed Khamenei's death, they haven't ruled it out. Iranian officials insist Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian are safe, despite what they call an assassination attempt. Reports indicate a high-level meeting may have been underway at the time of the strike. Khamenei, who operates with tight security and a network of loyalists, has survived previous assassination attempts and unrest.