Russia sits back as the Iran war escalates, expecting long-term gains

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.

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.

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.

In a video report dated March 3, 2026, *The New York Times* addresses the question of who is in charge of Iran's government following airstrikes that killed Supreme Leader Khamenei and other defense and security officials. Erika Solomon, the bureau chief for Iran and Iraq, provides information about the situation. The report aims to clarify the power structure in Iran after this significant event and identify potential successors or governing bodies. The video report is accompanied by contributions from Nikolay Nikolov, Jon Miller, Stephanie Swart, Rafaela Balster, Samuel Granados, and Christina Shaman.

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.

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.

Following a US-Israeli attack on a girls' school in Minab, Iran, a mass funeral was held for the 165 schoolgirls and staff killed on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Thousands gathered in Minab, chanting against the US and Israel, with attendees including families and officials. The attack, which occurred on Saturday after the announcement of joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, is described as the deadliest incident targeting civilians in the ongoing conflict. Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, have condemned the attack, accusing the US and Israel of deliberately targeting the school. While Israel has denied involvement, Iran has presented the event as a deliberate act of aggression, displaying images of the victims and newly dug graves.

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.

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.

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.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's governing system selected Ayatollah Alireza Arafi to its interim leadership council. Arafi, a hard-line cleric, has a long history of anti-American and anti-Israel rhetoric, advocating for the destruction of Israel and the humiliation of global powers. Experts suggest Arafi's elevation signals he is a potential candidate to succeed Khamenei as Supreme Leader. Arafi's experience includes leading Iran's seminary, Al-Mustafa University, and serving on the Guardian Council and Assembly of Experts. He has also served as the Friday prayer leader of Qom, a center for Iranian clergy. His rise is being closely watched in Washington due to his hard-line stance and potential implications for U.S. interests.

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, Tehran was reportedly attacked by a new round of Israeli strikes. Videos circulating online show heavy bombardment of the city. The Israeli military claimed responsibility, stating they launched another wave of attacks on Iran. The reason for this escalation was not explicitly stated in the provided article. The strikes mark a continuation of the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.

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.

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.

Following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a U.S. and Israeli bombardment, Iran is facing a succession crisis as it chooses its second supreme leader since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Potential replacements include hard-liners favoring confrontation with the West and reformists seeking diplomacy. The supreme leader holds ultimate authority over key decisions, including matters of war, peace, and the nuclear program. Currently, a provisional governing council consisting of President Masoud Pezeshkian, judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, and cleric Ayatollah Ali Reza Arafi is managing the country during this critical period. The Foreign Minister is Abbas Aragh.

In late February and early March 2026, the United States and Israel conducted strikes on Iran, resulting in the death of Iranian leader Ali Khamenei. World leaders are reacting cautiously to the events, with many urging a return to diplomatic talks. The strikes have sparked demonstrations both in support of and against the actions in various locations, including London, Berlin, and New York. The international community is closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have been seen in public, but their specific reactions to the strikes are not detailed. The strikes occurred on Saturday, February 28, 2026, with continued repercussions into the following days.

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.

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.

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 the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli air strike, China condemned the action amidst turmoil in Tehran and regional escalation. Despite the political uncertainty, analysts predict China's economic relationship with Iran, as its top oil buyer and trade partner, will remain strong. China is expected to maintain a pragmatic approach to Iran's new leadership, even if Tehran shifts towards the West, potentially impacting Chinese diplomatic and defense goals in the Middle East. A temporary leadership council consisting of Alireza Arafi, Masoud Pezeshkian, and Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei will govern until the Assembly of Experts selects Khamenei's successor. The US President has called for regime change in Iran.

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.

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.

In February 2026, President Trump ordered a military operation against Iran, including targeted strikes on Iranian leadership, a significant shift from his stance just months prior. The decision, made in conjunction with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, involved strikes on key Iranian nuclear sites and the targeting of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This marked a change in Trump's risk tolerance regarding the use of American military force against Iran. Previously, in June during Israel's war with Iran, Trump had agreed to bomb nuclear sites but rejected a plan to kill Khamenei. The military operation took place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, and was followed by Trump announcing Khamenei's death on social media.

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.

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, explosions were reported in Tehran, the capital of Iran. The explosions occurred as Israel launched an attack against Iran. Video footage shows smoke rising in Tehran following the reported Israeli attack. The specific targets and the extent of the damage caused by the attack are not detailed in this brief report. The reasons behind the attack are not mentioned in the article.

The article outlines the escalating tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran. It notes that former US President Donald Trump repeatedly threatened Iran and urged them to negotiate. Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu has long considered Iran's nuclear program and regional activities a threat, advocating for regime change. The article then pivots to reporting that the US and Israel have launched major strikes on Iran. The article promises to detail key events in recent months related to these developments.

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.

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.