Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has reportedly been selected as the country's next top authority, according to reports. The claim has now been denied by the Iranian Consulate General in Mumbai. According to an Iran International report, citing sources in the know, Iran's Assembly of Experts had elected the 56-year-old cleric to assume the leadership left vacant after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's assassination in joint United States-Israel strikes on Iran. Who is Mojtaba Khamenei? Here's all we know about him.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-will-not-automatically-fall-after-khamenei-s-death-farah-pahlavi-1772554447794">'Iran will not 'automatically' fall after...': Farah Pahlavi's BIG statement</a><h2>Who is Mojtaba Khamenei?</h2>56-year-old Mojtaba Khamenei is the second-eldest son of the late leader and has for years been viewed by observers as a potential successor, despite holding no formal public office. However, he is believed to have effectively managed much of the Office of the Supreme Leader. Analysts often refer to him as a power broker operating out of sight.A mid-ranking cleric, Mojtaba, reportedly served during the Iran-Iraq war and is said to maintain close ties with the Guard. He has largely stayed out of the public eye, rarely giving speeches and seldom appearing in state media.&nbsp;According to Iran International, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps pushed for Mojtaba's succession. "The IRGC heavily pressured the assembled group of clerics to select Mojtaba as the regime’s new leader," the outlet reported. There has been no immediate confirmation from Iranian state authorities.<h2>A controversial succession</h2>A father-to-son handover would not be without controversy. Since the 1979 revolution, the Islamic Republic has framed itself as an alternative to monarchy, rejecting hereditary rule. A dynastic-style transition could test that claim and invite scrutiny, both inside Iran and abroad.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-the-us-israel-bomb-assembly-of-experts-building-where-iran-s-new-supreme-leader-is-selected-reports-claim-1772551975479">Did the US, Israel bomb the site where Iran's new Supreme Leader is selected?</a><h2>Who is the Supreme Leader? Why is the post important?</h2>The Supreme Leader stands at the centre of Iran's political system, with the final say on foreign policy, defence and key state matters. The Supreme Leader also serves as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, including the Revolutionary Guard, which was designated a terrorist organisation by the United States in 2019. &nbsp;WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Who is Mojtaba Khamenei? Reports say Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Ali Khamenei, has been chosen to succeed him as Iran’s next supreme leader. What do we know about the cleric and the controversy around a possible dynastic shift? 

Scroll down to read more.

Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has reportedly been selected as the country's next top authority, according to reports. The claim has now been denied by the Iranian Consulate General in Mumbai. According to an Iran International report, citing sources in the know, Iran's Assembly of Experts had elected the 56-year-old cleric to assume the leadership left vacant after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's assassination in joint United States-Israel strikes on Iran. Who is Mojtaba Khamenei? Here's all we know about him. Also read | 'Iran will not 'automatically' fall after...': Farah Pahlavi's BIG statement Who is Mojtaba Khamenei? 56-year-old Mojtaba Khamenei is the second-eldest son of the late leader and has for years been viewed by observers as a potential successor, despite holding no formal public office. However, he is believed to have effectively managed much of the Office of the Supreme Leader. Analysts often refer to him as a power broker operating out of sight. A mid-ranking cleric, Mojtaba, reportedly served during the Iran-Iraq war and is said to maintain close ties with the Guard. He has largely stayed out of the public eye, rarely giving speeches and seldom appearing in state media. According to Iran International, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps pushed for Mojtaba's succession. "The IRGC heavily pressured the assembled group of clerics to select Mojtaba as the regime’s new leader," the outlet reported. There has been no immediate confirmation from Iranian state authorities. A controversial succession A father-to-son handover would not be without controversy. Since the 1979 revolution, the Islamic Republic has framed itself as an alternative to monarchy, rejecting hereditary rule. A dynastic-style transition could test that claim and invite scrutiny, both inside Iran and abroad. Also read | Did the US, Israel bomb the site where Iran's new Supreme Leader is selected? Who is the Supreme Leader? Why is the post important? The Supreme Leader stands at the centre of Iran's political system, with the final say on foreign policy, defence and key state matters. The Supreme Leader also serves as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, including the Revolutionary Guard, which was designated a terrorist organisation by the United States in 2019. WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Who is Mojtaba Khamenei? Reports say Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Ali Khamenei, has been chosen to succeed him as Iran’s next supreme leader. What do we know about the cleric and the controversy around a possible dynastic shift?&nbsp;Scroll down to read more.

Who is Mojtaba Khamenei? Iran elects new Supreme Leader to replace Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: Report

The Rockwell B-1B Lancer is a supersonic, long-range bomber capable of carrying up to 75,000 pounds of ordnance, including JDAMs, JASSMs, laser-guided bombs and naval mines.

The Rockwell B-1B Lancer is a supersonic, long-range bomber capable of carrying up to 75,000 pounds of ordnance, including JDAMs, JASSMs, laser-guided bombs and naval mines.&nbsp;

Iran war: How B‑1 bomber’s 75,000‑pound payload of JDAMs, JASSMs & laser‑guided bombs powers US precision strikes

The US Air Force used its B-1B Lancer bombers to conduct long-range strikes deep inside Iranian territory, targeting ballistic missile capabilities.

The US Air Force used its B-1B Lancer bombers to conduct long-range strikes deep inside Iranian territory, targeting ballistic missile capabilities.

'B-1 bombers over Iran': What are they and how did they penetrate Iranian airspace to strike ballistic missile targets?

As the US and Israel strike Iran in a joint military operation, the US Central Command Commander Charles Bradford Cooper II sends out a letter to the troops. At a time when the Middle East is in a turbulent situation, the letter read: “To America's extraordinary sons and daughters deployed around the Middle East, by order of the President of the United States, we are embarking on a mission of profound consequence. The time for preparation is over. The time for action has arrived.”&nbsp;The document dated February 28 was shared by news outlet Washington Post’s journalist Dan Lamothe. It highlights how Admiral Cooper is honoured to serve with “most exceptional Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, Guardians and Coast Guardsmen on this earth.”&nbsp;

CENTCOM Chief Admiral Brad Cooper issues a "relentlessly lethal" order to US troops as Operation Epic Fury enters a decisive phase.

As the US and Israel strike Iran in a joint military operation, the US Central Command Commander Charles Bradford Cooper II sends out a letter to the troops. At a time when the Middle East is in a turbulent situation, the letter read: “To America's extraordinary sons and daughters deployed around the Middle East, by order of the President of the United States, we are embarking on a mission of profound consequence. The time for preparation is over. The time for action has arrived.” The document dated February 28 was shared by news outlet Washington Post’s journalist Dan Lamothe. It highlights how Admiral Cooper is honoured to serve with “most exceptional Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, Guardians and Coast Guardsmen on this earth.”

CENTCOM Chief Admiral Brad Cooper issues a "relentlessly lethal" order to US troops as Operation Epic Fury enters a decisive phase.&nbsp;

'Be relentlessly lethal': CENTCOM commander briefs troops amid Iran conflict

During Operation Epic Fury, US B-2 stealth bombers dropped 2,000-lb bunker-busters on Iran's hardened ballistic missile facilities. US Central Command confirmed the earth-shattering bombardment

During Operation Epic Fury, US B-2 stealth bombers dropped 2,000-lb bunker-busters on Iran's hardened ballistic missile facilities. US Central Command confirmed the earth-shattering bombardment

‘2000-lb bombs’: B-2 Bomber executed merciless, Earth-shattering bombardment on Iran during Operation Epic Fury

As the conflict between the United States and Iran intensifies, the US military is increasingly relying on Artificial Intelligence for precision strikes. During Operation Epic Fury, the US military utilised AI to execute precision strikes on Iran. 

As the conflict between the United States and Iran intensifies, the US military is increasingly relying on Artificial Intelligence for precision strikes. During Operation Epic Fury, the US military utilised AI to execute precision strikes on Iran.&nbsp;

‘US vs Iran’: How AI helped the US military conduct precision attacks on Iran

Three US service members were killed and five were seriously wounded as part of ‘Operation Epic Fury’, the US Central Command said on Sunday, sharing information on casualties of any kind on the US side for the first time. “Several others sustained minor shrapnel injuries and concussions—and are in the process of being returned to duty,” CENTCOM said in the update, adding, “Major combat operations continue, and our response effort is ongoing.”The military did not identify the service members. “The situation is fluid, so out of respect for the families, we will withhold additional information, including the identities of our fallen warriors, until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified,” CENTCOM said in a post on X.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-struck-us-aircraft-carrier-uss-abraham-lincoln-with-4-ballistic-missiles-iran-s-guards-1772376328069">‘Struck US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln with 4 ballistic missiles,’ claims Iran; US say it’s a ‘lie’</a>&nbsp;Earlier, CENTCOM announced that an Iranian Jamaran-class corvette was struck by US forces as part of the operation. The ship is currently sinking to the bottom of the Gulf of Oman at a Chah Bahar pier, the military said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The US military also called on Iranian forces to lay down their arms and leave their posts.&nbsp;&nbsp;“As the President said, members of Iran’s armed forces, IRGC, and police ‘must lay down your weapons.’ Abandon ship,” CENTCOM said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-missile-strikes-beit-shemesh-in-israel-6-civilians-killed-many-injured-1772371614388">Iranian missile strikes Beit Shemesh in Israel; 9 civilians killed, many injured</a>&nbsp;The statement did not specify whether the vessel was part of the Iranian military navy or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ naval force.&nbsp;CENTCOM also issued a statement denying Iranian claims that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had successfully struck the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier positioned in the Middle East.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-hits-oil-tanker-with-15-indian-crew-members-in-strait-of-hormuz-4-injured-1772367871326">Iran hits oil tanker with 15 Indian crew members in Strait of Hormuz; 4 injured</a>&nbsp;“Iran’s IRGC claims to have struck USS Abraham Lincoln with ballistic missiles. LIE,” CENTCOM wrote on X.&nbsp;“The Lincoln was not hit. The missiles launched didn’t even come close,” the statement added.&nbsp;“The Lincoln continues to launch aircraft in support of CENTCOM’s relentless campaign to defend the American people by eliminating threats from the Iranian regime,” it added, sharing pictures of deck and flight crews conducting fighter jet launch operations to strike Iran.

US CENTCOM announced that an Iranian Jamaran-class corvette was struck by US forces during the operation. The ship is currently sinking to the bottom of the Gulf of Oman at a Chah Bahar pier, it said. The US military also called on Iranian forces to lay down their arms and leave their posts.

Three US service members were killed and five were seriously wounded as part of ‘Operation Epic Fury’, the US Central Command said on Sunday, sharing information on casualties of any kind on the US side for the first time. “Several others sustained minor shrapnel injuries and concussions—and are in the process of being returned to duty,” CENTCOM said in the update, adding, “Major combat operations continue, and our response effort is ongoing.” The military did not identify the service members. “The situation is fluid, so out of respect for the families, we will withhold additional information, including the identities of our fallen warriors, until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified,” CENTCOM said in a post on X. Also Read: ‘Struck US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln with 4 ballistic missiles,’ claims Iran; US say it’s a ‘lie’ Earlier, CENTCOM announced that an Iranian Jamaran-class corvette was struck by US forces as part of the operation. The ship is currently sinking to the bottom of the Gulf of Oman at a Chah Bahar pier, the military said. The US military also called on Iranian forces to lay down their arms and leave their posts. “As the President said, members of Iran’s armed forces, IRGC, and police ‘must lay down your weapons.’ Abandon ship,” CENTCOM said. Also Read: Iranian missile strikes Beit Shemesh in Israel; 9 civilians killed, many injured The statement did not specify whether the vessel was part of the Iranian military navy or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ naval force. CENTCOM also issued a statement denying Iranian claims that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had successfully struck the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier positioned in the Middle East. Also Read: Iran hits oil tanker with 15 Indian crew members in Strait of Hormuz; 4 injured “Iran’s IRGC claims to have struck USS Abraham Lincoln with ballistic missiles. LIE,” CENTCOM wrote on X. “The Lincoln was not hit. The missiles launched didn’t even come close,” the statement added. “The Lincoln continues to launch aircraft in support of CENTCOM’s relentless campaign to defend the American people by eliminating threats from the Iranian regime,” it added, sharing pictures of deck and flight crews conducting fighter jet launch operations to strike Iran.

US CENTCOM announced that an Iranian Jamaran-class corvette was struck by US forces during the operation. The ship is currently sinking to the bottom of the Gulf of Oman at a Chah Bahar pier, it said. The US military also called on Iranian forces to lay down their arms and leave their posts.

US admits 3 military personnel killed in ‘Operation Epic Fury’, claims it sank Iranian warship

Is Iran targeting US bases across the Middle East after joint strikes? From Bahrain and Qatar to Kuwait and the UAE, key American installations are on alert.

Which American military bases could be in Tehran’s sights? Scroll down to read more.

Is Iran targeting US bases across the Middle East after joint strikes? From Bahrain and Qatar to Kuwait and the UAE, key American installations are on alert.Which American military bases could be in Tehran’s sights? Scroll down to read more.

Bahrain, Qatar, UAE and more: 6 nations with US military bases in danger as Iran retaliates to Operation Epic Fury

Israel initiated the assault with a pre-emptive strike, immediately followed by the US. then both Israel and the United States launched coordinated strikes against Iran. While President Donald Trump confirmed the US mission "Operation Epic Fury".


Israel initiated the assault with a pre-emptive strike, immediately followed by the US. then both Israel and the United States launched coordinated strikes against Iran. While President Donald Trump confirmed the US mission "Operation Epic Fury".

‘US or Israel’: Which military attacked first on Iran?

Bahrain reported on Saturday (Feb 28) that a facility housing the US Fifth Fleet headquarters was struck by a missile as Iran launched its retaliatory attacks following US and Israeli strikes. "The Fifth Fleet's service centre was subjected to a missile attack. We will provide you with details later," Bahrain's National Communication Centre said in a statement. This comes as Israel and the United States, in conjunction, launched military strikes against Iran. The joint military operation, which is being called Operation Fury by the US and Operation Lion's Roar by Israel, has struck around 30 targets in Iran.<h2>Qatar intercepts incoming missile</h2>Meanwhile, in Qatar, air defence systems were activated as warning sirens sounded across parts of the country. An official told AFP that a US-made Patriot interceptor brought down an Iranian missile mid-air.Qatar hosts the Al Udeid Air Base, the largest American military installation in the region.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-confirms-us-israel-strikes-says-iran-s-murderous-terrorist-regime-must-not-gain-nuclear-arms-1772268667559">Netanyahu confirms US-Israel strikes, says Iran's ‘murderous terrorist regime’ must not gain nuclear arms</a><h2>Targets hit across Iran</h2>Israeli media reported that roughly 30 locations were struck in the opening phase of the joint military operation that is being called Operation Fury by the US and Operation Lion's Roar by Israel. Among them were sites linked to Iran's leadership and intelligence apparatus. Explosions and plumes of smoke were seen rising over parts of Tehran. The extent of the damage remains unclear.According to the Israeli military, their strikes on Iran, conducted in collaboration with the US, hit many military sites and were planned jointly by the allies for months. "The strike targeted dozens of military targets and was carried out as part of a broad, coordinated, and joint operation against the regime," the army said in a statement."In the months preceding the strike, close and joint planning was conducted between the IDF and the US military, enabling the execution of the broad strike in full synchronisation and coordination between the two militaries," it added.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-stark-ultimatum-to-iranian-forces-surrender-or-face-certain-death-operation-lion-s-roar-israel-us-launch-strike-1772266430634">Trump's stark ultimatum to Iranian military: Surrender or face ‘certain death’</a><h2>Questions over Khamenei’s whereabouts</h2>Meanwhile, the whereabouts of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei are uncertain. Reports suggest a strike took place near his headquarters in the Iranian capital, Tehran. It is not known whether he was present at the time or if he was injured in the strike. According to Reuters, an Iranian official said Khamenei had been moved to a secure location.<h2>Trump issues stark ultimatum to Iranian troops</h2>Soon after the strikes, President Trump confirmed that American forces were involved in what he described as major combat operations. In a video message posted on his Truth Social, the US president ominously warned the “Islamic Revolutionary Guard, the Armed Forces, and all of the police” that they must surrender or be killed. He promised that those who surrender will be “treated fairly” and that they'll be granted “total immunity”. &nbsp;

US military base in Bahrain hit as Iran launches retaliatory missile attack against Israel and America

Bahrain reported on Saturday (Feb 28) that a facility housing the US Fifth Fleet headquarters was struck by a missile as Iran launched its retaliatory attacks following US and Israeli strikes. "The Fifth Fleet's service centre was subjected to a missile attack. We will provide you with details later," Bahrain's National Communication Centre said in a statement. This comes as Israel and the United States, in conjunction, launched military strikes against Iran. The joint military operation, which is being called Operation Fury by the US and Operation Lion's Roar by Israel, has struck around 30 targets in Iran. Qatar intercepts incoming missile Meanwhile, in Qatar, air defence systems were activated as warning sirens sounded across parts of the country. An official told AFP that a US-made Patriot interceptor brought down an Iranian missile mid-air. Qatar hosts the Al Udeid Air Base, the largest American military installation in the region. Also read | Netanyahu confirms US-Israel strikes, says Iran's ‘murderous terrorist regime’ must not gain nuclear arms Targets hit across Iran Israeli media reported that roughly 30 locations were struck in the opening phase of the joint military operation that is being called Operation Fury by the US and Operation Lion's Roar by Israel. Among them were sites linked to Iran's leadership and intelligence apparatus. Explosions and plumes of smoke were seen rising over parts of Tehran. The extent of the damage remains unclear. According to the Israeli military, their strikes on Iran, conducted in collaboration with the US, hit many military sites and were planned jointly by the allies for months. "The strike targeted dozens of military targets and was carried out as part of a broad, coordinated, and joint operation against the regime," the army said in a statement. "In the months preceding the strike, close and joint planning was conducted between the IDF and the US military, enabling the execution of the broad strike in full synchronisation and coordination between the two militaries," it added. Also read | Trump's stark ultimatum to Iranian military: Surrender or face ‘certain death’ Questions over Khamenei’s whereabouts Meanwhile, the whereabouts of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei are uncertain. Reports suggest a strike took place near his headquarters in the Iranian capital, Tehran. It is not known whether he was present at the time or if he was injured in the strike. According to Reuters, an Iranian official said Khamenei had been moved to a secure location. Trump issues stark ultimatum to Iranian troops Soon after the strikes, President Trump confirmed that American forces were involved in what he described as major combat operations. In a video message posted on his Truth Social, the US president ominously warned the “Islamic Revolutionary Guard, the Armed Forces, and all of the police” that they must surrender or be killed. He promised that those who surrender will be “treated fairly” and that they'll be granted “total immunity”.

Has Iran struck back at US forces in the Gulf? Bahrain says a site linked to the US Fifth Fleet was hit, while Qatar reportedly intercepted an incoming missile near Al Udeid Air Base.With joint US-Israel strikes underway and Tehran responding, how far could this escalate?

The US Department of Defense announced on Saturday (February 28) that its military operation targeting Iran has been named “Operation Epic Fury.” Israel, backed by the United States, carried out what it described as a preemptive strike near the offices of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The attack comes amid escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington over Iran’s nuclear activities.<h2>Israel-Iran tensions: What is happening in Tehran?</h2>In Israel, several hospitals activated emergency procedures, relocating patients and surgical operations to underground areas, according to the news agency Associated Press. In Tehran, residents reported hearing an initial explosion near Khamenei’s office. Iranian state television later confirmed that a blast had occurred but did not provide further details about its cause. Air raid sirens sounded across Israel as the country shut down its airspace. The Israeli military stated it had issued a “proactive alert” to prepare citizens for the potential launch of missiles toward Israeli territory. A previous operation targeting Iran’s nuclear sites last year had been referred to as “Operation Midnight Hammer.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-tensions-we-are-very-close-to-final-victory-says-iran-s-exiled-prince-reza-pahlavi-after-israel-launches-attack-on-tehran-1772266604406">Israel-Iran tensions: 'We are very close to final victory', says Iran’s exiled prince Reza Pahlavi after Israel launches attack on Tehran</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">OPERATION EPIC FURY 🇺🇸&mdash; Department of War 🇺🇸 (@DeptofWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofWar/status/2027662002219302929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, Iran also closed its airspace, and mobile phone networks were reportedly disrupted. A warning was issued to pilots as explosions echoed throughout the Iranian capital. Iranian state-linked media outlets reported that dozens of ballistic missiles had been launched at Israel in retaliation. Nour News, associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said the missile strikes were a direct response to the attacks. Iran’s English-language broadcaster Press TV claimed that between 30 and 75 missiles were being launched. Mehr News Agency reported that the missiles were aimed at what it called the “whole of Palestine,” a term it uses to refer to Israel.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bolivia-military-plane-crash-kills-at-least-20-near-la-paz-wion-1772263794863/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bolivia-military-plane-crash-kills-at-least-20-near-la-paz-wion-1772263794863/embed</a>&nbsp;The Israeli military confirmed missile launches from Iran, which triggered warning sirens in multiple regions. Israel declared a state of emergency and urged residents to stay near bomb shelters. Further explosions were reported across several Iranian cities, including Tehran, particularly in areas housing government ministries and military facilities, as well as Kermanshah, Lorestan, Tabriz, Isfahan, and Karaj. NetBlocks, an organization that monitors internet connectivity, reported disruptions in parts of Iran, including Tehran, with internet access dropping to roughly 54 percent of normal levels.

US and Israel launched strikes near Khamenei’s office; Iran fired missiles at Israel, shut airspace, as explosions hit multiple cities. amid escalating tensions

The US Department of Defense announced on Saturday (February 28) that its military operation targeting Iran has been named “Operation Epic Fury.” Israel, backed by the United States, carried out what it described as a preemptive strike near the offices of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The attack comes amid escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington over Iran’s nuclear activities. Israel-Iran tensions: What is happening in Tehran? In Israel, several hospitals activated emergency procedures, relocating patients and surgical operations to underground areas, according to the news agency Associated Press. In Tehran, residents reported hearing an initial explosion near Khamenei’s office. Iranian state television later confirmed that a blast had occurred but did not provide further details about its cause. Air raid sirens sounded across Israel as the country shut down its airspace. The Israeli military stated it had issued a “proactive alert” to prepare citizens for the potential launch of missiles toward Israeli territory. A previous operation targeting Iran’s nuclear sites last year had been referred to as “Operation Midnight Hammer.” Also Read: Israel-Iran tensions: 'We are very close to final victory', says Iran’s exiled prince Reza Pahlavi after Israel launches attack on Tehran

US and Israel launched strikes near Khamenei’s office; Iran fired missiles at Israel, shut airspace, as explosions hit multiple cities. amid escalating tensions

Israel-Iran tensions | 'Operation Epic Fury': Here's what US called their attack on Tehran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his first public statement after his nation launched Operation Lion's Roar, said that the "murderous terrorist regime" in Iran must not be allowed to gain nuclear arms. In the televised address, the Israeli Prime Minister confirmed that Israel, along with the United States, had launched strikes against Iran.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-stark-ultimatum-to-iranian-forces-surrender-or-face-certain-death-operation-lion-s-roar-israel-us-launch-strike-1772266430634">Trump's stark ultimatum to Iranian forces: Surrender or face ‘certain death’ | Operation Epic Fury</a>"This murderous terrorist regime must not be allowed to arm itself with nuclear weapons that would enable it to threaten all of humanity," Netanyahu said in a video statement. "Together we will stand, together we will fight, and together we will ensure the eternity of Israel," he added. Netanyahu also urged Israeli citizens to follow civil defence instructions in the days ahead, saying the operation would require patience and resilience.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: &quot;My brothers and sisters, citizens of Israel, a short while ago, Israel and the United States embarked on an operation to remove the existential threat posed by the terrorist regime in Iran. <a href="https://t.co/nhlJTfTi8i">pic.twitter.com/nhlJTfTi8i</a>&mdash; Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/2027666997006291049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Targets hit across Iran</h2>Israeli media reported that roughly 30 locations were struck in the opening phase of the joint military operation that is being called Operation Fury by the US and Operation Lion's Roar by Israel. Among them were sites linked to Iran's leadership and intelligence apparatus. Explosions and plumes of smoke were seen rising over parts of Tehran. The extent of the damage remains unclear.<h2>Questions over Khamenei’s whereabouts</h2>Meanwhile, the whereabouts of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei are uncertain. Reports suggest a strike took place near his headquarters in the Iranian capital, Tehran. It is not known whether he was present at the time or if he was injured in the strike. According to Reuters, an Iranian official said Khamenei had been moved to a secure location.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-s-new-iran-campaign-gets-dramatic-codename-lion-s-roar-here-s-why-netanyahu-chose-the-name-personally-1772264770052">Israel’s new Iran campaign gets dramatic codename ‘Lion’s Roar'. Here's why</a><h2>Trump issues stark ultimatum to Iranian troops</h2>Soon after the strikes, President Trump confirmed that American forces were involved in what he described as major combat operations. In a video message posted on his Truth Social, the US president ominously warned the “Islamic Revolutionary Guard, the Armed Forces, and all of the police” that they must surrender or be killed. He promised that those who surrender will be “treated fairly” and that they'll be granted “total immunity”.

In his first statement after Israel launched Operation Lion’s Roar, PM Benjamin Netanyahu has warned Iran must never gain nuclear weapons. 

What did he say, and what comes next? Scroll down to read more.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his first public statement after his nation launched Operation Lion's Roar, said that the "murderous terrorist regime" in Iran must not be allowed to gain nuclear arms. In the televised address, the Israeli Prime Minister confirmed that Israel, along with the United States, had launched strikes against Iran. Also read | Trump's stark ultimatum to Iranian forces: Surrender or face ‘certain death’ | Operation Epic Fury "This murderous terrorist regime must not be allowed to arm itself with nuclear weapons that would enable it to threaten all of humanity," Netanyahu said in a video statement. "Together we will stand, together we will fight, and together we will ensure the eternity of Israel," he added. Netanyahu also urged Israeli citizens to follow civil defence instructions in the days ahead, saying the operation would require patience and resilience.

In his first statement after Israel launched Operation Lion’s Roar, PM Benjamin Netanyahu has warned Iran must never gain nuclear weapons.&nbsp;What did he say, and what comes next? Scroll down to read more.

Netanyahu confirms US-Israel strikes, says Iran's ‘murderous terrorist regime’ must not gain nuclear arms