Khamenei house targeted: Satellite image shows damage at Iran Supreme Leader's compound after US-Israel strikes
An image shows a black plume of smoke rising above the compound, along with what appear to be collapsed structures within the complex, which serves as Khamenei’s residence.
A newly published satellite image appears to show damage at the secure compound of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran, following joint military strikes by the United States and Israel.
The image, published by The New York Times and captured by Airbus, shows a black plume of smoke rising above the compound, along with what appear to be collapsed structures within the complex, which serves as Khamenei’s residence.
The developments come hours after Iranian officials vowed a “crushing response” to the strikes. According to reports, the joint operation—referred to as Operation Roaring Lion—targeted multiple military installations, missile production facilities, and areas near the supreme leader’s office.
While images indicate damage at the compound, it remains unclear whether Khamenei was present at the time of the strikes. The New York Times reported that his current whereabouts are unknown.
Reported targeting of senior leaders
Israel’s public broadcaster, reported by Kan, stated that both Khamenei and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian were among the intended targets of the attack.
An on-air journalist also referenced Ali Shamkhani, an adviser to the supreme leader and former defense minister, though it was not confirmed whether the strike objectives were achieved.
An Israeli security source, speaking anonymously, told journalists that the initial phase of the operation targeted high-profile figures allegedly involved in planning against Israel.
Heightened tensions
The strikes mark a significant escalation in regional tensions, with both sides exchanging strong rhetoric in the aftermath. Iranian officials have pledged retaliation, while Israeli and US sources have framed the operation as a pre-emptive security measure.
As the situation develops, questions remain over the extent of the damage, the status of targeted individuals, and the potential for further escalation in the region.
Trump calls on Iranians to rise up
In a video statement announcing “major combat operations,” US President Donald Trump urged the Iranian public to overthrow their government. “When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations,” Trump said. He added: “For many years, you have asked for America’s help, but you never got it.”
Trump also said the US was prepared for potential casualties, stating, “that often happens in war.”
In the video posted on Truth Social, Trump said, “We are going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground,” adding that Iran “can never have a nuclear weapon.”
He also warned the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to surrender, saying, “Lay down your weapons… or face certain death.”
Netanyahu signals broader objective
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the operation was intended to create political change inside Iran. “Our joint operation will create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their fate into their own hands,” Netanyahu said.
Israeli officials described the campaign as a “broad, coordinated, and joint operation” planned over months between the two militaries.