A series of 30 bomb explosions resulted in the death of Iran’s feared Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as his Tehran residence was completely destroyed by air attacks. Coordinated strikes by the US and Israel targeted key figures in the Iranian government, sparking potential turmoil in the Middle East. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinted at Khamenei’s demise before official confirmation, citing multiple indicators.
The assault decimated numerous buildings within the compound where the Supreme Leader and other high-ranking officials resided. Khamenei, a dominant figure in Iran since 1989, was reportedly discovered amidst the debris. Tragically, Khamenei’s daughter, grandchild, daughter, and son-in-law also lost their lives in the attack, as confirmed by state media reports.
The initial phase of Operation Epic Fury singled out locations linked to Iran’s security establishment, focusing on entities deemed threatening to the US and its allies. The operation aimed to destabilize the country’s leadership without any reported American casualties during the first wave. Tomahawk missiles were witnessed striking targets in Tehran, with subsequent explosions reported at various Iranian government sites.
Cities like Bushehr, Qom, Karaj, Kermanshah, and Isfahan were also targeted in the military operation. Netanyahu emphasized the necessity of action against Iran’s perceived nuclear ambitions, stressing the cooperation between Israel and the US in the endeavor.
In retaliation, Iran launched counterattacks on Saturday, targeting neighboring nations with ties to the US or hosting American military bases. Reports surfaced of strikes by Iranian drones and missiles hitting countries like Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Israel. Iranian projectiles hit upscale areas in Dubai and a residential tower in Bahrain, showcasing the escalating conflict in the region.