A newly released satellite image appears to show damage to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s secure compound in Tehran following joint military strikes by the United States and Israel.
An image published by The New York Times and captured by Airbus shows a black plume of smoke rising over the compound, along with what appear to be collapsed structures in the compound that serves as Khamenei’s residence.
Photo showing Al Khamenei’s residence (Airbus via NYT)
The development comes hours after Iranian officials vowed a “crushing response” to the strikes. According to reports, the joint operation – dubbed Operation Roaring Lion – targeted various military installations, missile production facilities and areas near the Supreme Leader’s office.
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While images suggest damage to the compound, it remains unclear whether Khamenei was present at the time of the attacks. The New York Times reported that his current whereabouts are unknown.
Reported targeting of senior executives
Israeli public television, reported by Kan, said that both Khamenei and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian were among the intended targets of the attack.
Ali Shamkhani, an adviser to the supreme leader and former defense minister, was also mentioned by the journalist in the broadcast, although it was not confirmed whether the strike’s objectives were achieved.
An Israeli security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told reporters that the initial phase of the operation targeted high-ranking figures allegedly involved in planning against Israel.
Increased voltage
The strikes mark a significant escalation of regional tensions, with both sides exchanging strong rhetoric in the aftermath. Iranian officials have vowed retaliation, while Israeli and US sources described the operation as a precautionary security measure.
As the situation develops, questions remain about the extent of the damage, the status of the targeted individuals, and the potential for further escalation in the region.
Trump calls on Iranians to rise up
US President Donald Trump called on the Iranian public to overthrow its government in a video statement announcing “major combat operations”. “When we’re done, take over your government. It’s up to you to take over. It’ll probably be your only chance for generations,” Trump said. He added: “You have asked America for help for many years, but you never got it.”
Trump also said the U.S. was prepared for potential casualties, saying “that happens a lot in war.”
In a video posted on Truth Social, Trump said, “We’re going to destroy their missiles and level their missile industry,” adding that Iran “can never have a nuclear weapon.”
He also warned the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to surrender, saying: “Lay down your arms… or face certain death.”
Netanyahu signals a broader goal
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the operation was aimed at creating political change inside Iran. “Our joint operation will create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands,” Netanyahu said.
Israeli officials described the campaign as a “broad, coordinated and joint operation” planned for several months between the two armies.
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