On Saturday, multiple explosions reverberated through downtown Tehran after Israel announced a large-scale military strike on Iran’s capital, in what it called a “pre-emptive attack” aimed at reducing Tehran’s perceived threats.
Witnesses reported columns of smoke rising over key central districts, including areas near the office of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader. The assault marked a significant escalation in tensions between Tehran, Jerusalem, and Washington, immediately drawing global attention and concerns over wider regional conflict.
Where is Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Now?
In the midst of the bombardment, Iranian state and international news outlets cited an official source confirming that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is not in Tehran. The 86-year-old leader has reportedly been transferred to a secure and undisclosed location, raising questions about his condition and Iran’s command continuity during the crisis.
Iranian authorities have not publicly updated Khamenei’s exact whereabouts or provided details on his health since the reported movement. Israel Says Strike Was “Pre-Emptive” To “Remove Threats”
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed that Israel launched the strike early Saturday, describing it as a “pre-emptive attack” intended to remove threats to the State of Israel.” The statement did not elaborate on specific targets or the extent of damage across Tehran.
Israeli forces also issued emergency alerts, warning citizens to remain in protected areas and prepare for potential missile retaliation.
Iran-Israel Tension: US Participation in Operation
According to international reporting, the United States military participated in the offensive, though officials have not fully outlined the scope of American involvement. US naval and air assets positioned in the region appear to have supported the operation, reflecting Washington’s long-standing pressure on Tehran over its nuclear and missile programs.
Iran has repeatedly rejected demands to dismantle these programs and says it will not compromise its right to uranium enrichment — a major point of contention in ongoing negotiations.
Iran-Israel Tension: Airspace Shutdown & Communications Blackout in Tehran
Amid the explosions, Iranian authorities closed airspace over Tehran and reported disruptions to internet and mobile services, adding to public alarm and confusion across the densely populated city.
The movement of Khamenei to a secure location appears to be part of wider government efforts to safeguard top leadership as military operations unfold.
Iran-Israel Tension: Iran’s Response & Retaliation Threats
State media and senior Iranian officials have yet to announce immediate retaliation. However, Iran has warned in recent weeks that United States military bases and personnel in the region could be targeted if Tehran is attacked. The uncertainty around Iran’s next steps has heightened fears of a broader military confrontation.
Both Iran and Israel have decades-long hostilities shaped by nuclear, regional, and ideological conflicts — making this escalation one of the most dangerous in recent years.
Iran-Israel Tension: Sirens Sound in Israel as Region Braces for Wider Conflict
In Israel, sirens blared across multiple cities and towns shortly after the strike was reported. The Israeli military said it issued a “proactive alert” to prepare the public for possible Iranian missile launches in retaliation, although no confirmed Iranian counter-strike had been reported at the time of writing.
The situation remains highly volatile and fluid, with world leaders and diplomatic channels closely monitoring developments.
