Dark haze over Tehran as US-Israeli forces bomb oil storage facilities

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.

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.

A new video report published by the New York Times on March 3, 2026, investigates President Trump's decision to pursue military action against Iran. The report, led by Mark Mazzetti, claims Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's desire to end diplomatic negotiations significantly influenced Trump's decision. The investigation details how few of Trump's advisors voiced opposition to the military action. The video report aims to explain the factors and influences behind President Trump's choice to engage in military conflict with Iran. The report was produced by Mark Mazzetti, Leila Medina, Sutton Raphael, Joey Sendaydiego, Jon Hazell and Rafaela Balster.

The Gulf states have launched retaliatory missile and drone strikes against Iran, targeting oil refineries in Saudi Arabia, a liquefied natural gas plant in Qatar, and trade and transit infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates. The attacks come after Iran's missile barrages struck these targets on Saturday, following US and Israeli attacks on Iran. The Gulf Cooperation Council member states had previously tried to mediate a way out of the conflict, but their efforts were unsuccessful. The retaliatory strikes signal that the region is no longer willing to absorb the hits from Iran's attacks. The Gulf states are now forced to consider a more proactive defense strategy against Iranian aggression. This shift in posture marks a significant change for the region.

In March 2026, Iranian government media showcased buildings in Tehran reportedly destroyed by US and Israeli strikes. The damaged sites included a diplomatic police center and a state-owned cultural institute. The media tour followed reported attacks that have resulted in at least 787 deaths in Iran. The strikes, attributed to the US and Israel, targeted government buildings in the capital city. The reason for the attacks was not stated in the provided information. The extent of the damage beyond the two buildings shown remains unknown.

Following US-Israeli strikes on Iran that resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Farah Pahlavi, the widow of the last Shah, stated that Khamenei's death, while historically significant, will not automatically lead to the collapse of the Iranian system. Pahlavi, speaking in an interview, emphasized the importance of the Iranian people uniting for a peaceful transition to a law-based state. She urged the international community to respect Iranian sovereignty and support the people's self-determination. Pahlavi also noted that her son, Reza Pahlavi, is preparing for a potential transition should the current republic fall. The attacks and Khamenei's death have created turmoil in the Middle East and raised questions about Iran's future.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended his decision to go to war with Iran alongside the United States. The joint military attacks began on March 2, 2026, targeting police stations and other locations in Tehran, Iran. This move marks a significant shift in Israel's foreign policy, as it enlists the U.S. support for what Netanyahu views as an existential battle against Iran's leadership. The partnership between Israel and the U.S. has been a cornerstone of Netanyahu's diplomatic efforts throughout his career. The war with Iran is seen as a high-stakes gamble that could strain the relationship between the two countries. The conflict has far-reaching consequences, both domestically and internationally.

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.

Following US and Israeli strikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, markets opened with a sharp sell-off in futures and Asian shares. Chinese satellite images taken on Sunday by the Dongfang Huiyan Gaofen01 satellite reveal significant damage in central Tehran, specifically to Khamenei's compound. The satellite, developed by Wuhan University and the government of Yantai, uses AI and high-definition technology. The same satellite system was previously used to analyze destruction in Gaza. On Monday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reported speaking with leaders from the UAE and Israel regarding the escalating regional situation.

A US-Israeli war against Iran began on Saturday with bombing and missile attacks, escalating into a regional conflict. The initial strikes, dubbed Operation Lion's Roar by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the US, targeted key security and political sites in Tehran and other Iranian cities, reportedly killing at least 555 people. Iran retaliated with strikes across the Middle East, leading to Israeli bombings in Lebanon after Hezbollah attacks. Cyprus also reported a drone attack on a British base. The UK, France, and Germany have expressed readiness to counter Iranian attacks. Civilian casualties are likely as security institutions are located in residential areas, and authorities have instructed citizens to flee major cities.

US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are set to meet at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, on December 29, 2025. The two leaders have differing reasons for their involvement in the war against Iran, with Israel seeking "regime change" and the US aiming to "defend the American people". Despite the assassination of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, a mass uprising within Iran has not materialized. Both countries have achieved tactical victories, but the alliance's long-term prospects are uncertain. Netanyahu's political survival is a key interest, as he seeks to distance himself from Israel's failures in Gaza and the West Bank. The meeting between Trump and Netanyahu will likely reveal their respective strategies for leveraging their successes.

In March 2026, Al Jazeera reported on the potential impact of the hypothetical killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. While some US officials and Iranian opposition groups believe his death would signify the end of the Islamic Republic, Al Jazeera's Soraya Lennie argues that this is not necessarily the case. The report suggests that the Supreme Leader's death and the existence of the Islamic Republic are not inextricably linked. The analysis explores why the system of government in Iran may persist even without its current leader. The report aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the complexities of Iranian politics and power structures.

Amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, Donald Trump expressed openness to negotiations with Iran following US-Israeli air strikes. These strikes, aimed at overthrowing the regime, resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and numerous other officials. Iran retaliated with missile attacks, causing casualties and prompting an emergency UN Security Council meeting where Iran accused the US and Israel of deliberately targeting civilian areas. The conflict has triggered a surge in oil prices and raised concerns about global economic stability. Both sides have reported casualties, including civilian deaths and military losses, as the fighting continues.

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.

On Saturday, the US and Israel launched attacks across Iran, reportedly resulting in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the destruction of his compound in Tehran. US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commented on the strikes. In response, Iran launched missiles and drones towards Israel and four Gulf Arab countries – Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE – which host US military bases. Iranian state media confirmed Khamenei's death following the US-Israel attack. The reasons behind the initial US-Israel strikes were not explicitly stated in the provided article.

On February 28, 2026, Qatar reported that eight people were injured by falling missile shrapnel after Iran fired 66 missiles at the country. Qatari authorities stated that their air defenses intercepted the missiles, but 114 reports of falling shrapnel were received nationwide. The Qatari Interior Ministry issued warnings urging residents to stay indoors and avoid military sites or unidentified debris. Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the Iranian missile strikes as a violation of its sovereignty and a threat to regional stability, reserving the right to respond under international law.

Iranian state media announced the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei following attacks across Iran by the US and Israel, which began on Saturday morning local time. The confirmation was delivered via a statement from Iran's Supreme National Security Council, broadcast on state television. The announcement followed claims by US President Donald Trump that Khamenei was dead and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement that Khamenei's Tehran compound had been struck. The attacks and subsequent announcement mark a significant escalation in tensions in the region. The reasons behind the attacks were not disclosed in the article.

Dubai residents and tourists were shaken when Iranian missiles and drones approached the Gulf states over the weekend, triggering air defenses in the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. Many initially mistook the interceptors for fireworks, as Dubai attempted to maintain its image of stability amidst regional conflict. While some residents received official alerts, others were caught off guard. Fires and smoke were reported at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports due to drone debris, resulting in one death and several injuries. Smoke was also seen at the Jebel Ali port area in Dubai, one of the busiest ports in the Middle East. The incident challenged Dubai's long-held perception as a safe haven insulated from regional political turmoil.

Following strikes against Iran and rumors of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death, Iranian expatriates in London and Manchester celebrated on Saturday. The celebrations, particularly concentrated in London's "Little Tehran," involved waving pre-revolutionary Iranian flags. However, the mood shifted to a more muted tone as news emerged of hundreds of Iranian deaths, including children, resulting from the strikes. While some members of the Iranian diaspora expressed happiness and support for the events, others acknowledged the uncertain future of Iran and the potential for devastating turmoil. Academics noted the expected yet devastating nature of the strikes, highlighting concerns about the consequences for the country.

Following reports of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death, contrasting reactions emerged across Iran. While some Iranians gathered in Tehran to mourn the Supreme Leader, others celebrated in the streets and on social media. Celebrations included dancing, fireworks, and expressions of joy over the demise of the leader who ruled for 36 years. These contrasting responses highlight deep divisions within the country, particularly among those who experienced the regime's crackdown on recent protests, during which thousands were killed, injured, or arrested. The celebrations reflect a sense of vengeance and relief for some Iranians affected by the violence.

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.

On Saturday morning, the US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran, targeting Iranian leaders and military sites. In response, Iran's IRGC fired missiles at US military bases in the Gulf, with explosions reported in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, and Qatar, resulting in one death in the UAE. Explosions also occurred in Tehran, near the presidential palace. Iran launched missiles at Israel, triggering air defense systems over Jerusalem. The US President vowed to crush Iran's military and eliminate its nuclear program, citing the need to defend Americans. The Israeli Prime Minister stated the operation aimed to remove an existential threat. These events followed inconclusive nuclear talks between the US and Iran.

On February 28, 2026, Iran reportedly struck a United States military base in Bahrain. This attack followed joint Israel-US attacks within Iran. News reports included video footage showing smoke plumes rising after the strike. Two missiles were reportedly intercepted over Qatar. Explosions were also reportedly heard in Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. The reason for the attacks was not explicitly stated in the provided information.

Iran launched missiles and drones targeting Israel and US military installations in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar in response to recent attacks by the US and Israel. The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated the action was in defense of the homeland. The UAE and Iraq closed their airspace, and shrapnel from an Iranian missile killed one person in the UAE. Israel issued a nationwide warning and activated its missile defense systems to intercept incoming projectiles. There were initially few reports of damage or injuries in Israel.

Following reported strikes in Iran by the US and Israel, Australia's National Security Committee is convening. Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated Australia was not informed in advance of the strikes and has updated travel advice for Israel, Lebanon, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. A crisis center has been activated to provide consular support to Australians in the region, and a registration portal has opened for Australians in Iran and Israel. Wong emphasized Iran's destabilizing role in the region and stated that Australia did not participate in the strikes. The Australian government advises Australians in the affected region to follow travel advice and seek safety, acknowledging potential difficulties with repatriation due to airspace closures.

In February 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the United States and Israel jointly attacked Iran to eliminate an "existential threat." Netanyahu praised the joint operation, claiming it would empower the Iranian people to determine their own future. He also commended U.S. President Donald Trump for his leadership in the action. The location of the strikes within Iran was not specified in the report. The stated reason for the attack was to remove a perceived threat to the U.S. and Israel.

Following Israeli and US airstrikes on Iran, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs (Dfat) has warned Australians of potential "reprisal attacks and further escalation" across the Middle East. Dfat updated its Smartraveller website, advising against travel to Iran and urging those in the country to leave if safe, citing the risk of military conflict and potential airspace closures impacting global flights. Australians remaining in Iran are advised to prepare to shelter in place with adequate supplies. The Australian embassy's operations in Iran are suspended. Prior to the attacks, Australia had already advised citizens in Israel and Lebanon to consider leaving and withdrew dependents of officials from Israel and Lebanon due to the deteriorating security situation.