Jerusalem, Israel — March 6, 2026
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has taken a dramatic turn after Israel’s defense minister revealed that a plan to target Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been approved months before the operation was carried out.
According to reports cited by the Jerusalem Post, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the strategic decision was made during a high-level security meeting late last year.
Plan Approved in High-Level Security Meeting
Speaking to Israeli broadcaster Channel N12, Katz stated that the objective of targeting Iran’s top leadership was established during a confidential meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in November.
“In November, we held a highly confidential meeting with the prime minister, during which the goal of targeting Khamenei was determined,” Katz said.
Initial planning reportedly envisioned carrying out the operation roughly six months later, around mid-2026.
Timeline Accelerated Amid Domestic Unrest in Iran
According to the report, the timeline for the operation was later advanced due to domestic unrest inside Iran.
Israeli officials were concerned that internal instability in Tehran could lead to escalations against Israeli and American assets across West Asia.
Israel also reportedly shared elements of its strategy with Washington, and the operation timeline was adjusted to begin earlier, around January.
Operation Part of Wider Military Campaign
The strike was reportedly conducted during the opening hours of military operations referred to as “Operation Roaring Lion” and “Epic Fury.”
The operation is being described as part of Israel’s broader campaign targeting Iran’s ballistic missile program and nuclear capabilities, which Israeli officials have repeatedly described as an existential threat to the country.
If confirmed, the incident would represent a highly significant escalation in the regional conflict.
Israeli Airstrikes Intensify Across Iran
Following the initial strike, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have intensified their air campaign against Iranian military infrastructure.
On Thursday, the IDF announced it had completed the 12th wave of airstrikes in Tehran, targeting key security and military facilities linked to Iran’s internal security apparatus.
Special Unit Headquarters Targeted in Alborz Province
Among the high-priority targets was the headquarters of a special internal security unit located in Alborz Province, which oversees multiple security forces operating within the country.
According to the Israeli Air Force (IAF), the operation also struck positions associated with the Basij paramilitary forces and other internal security units.
The IDF stated that the Alborz headquarters serves as a command hub directing several special units responsible for maintaining internal security operations.
Additional Military Infrastructure Hit
Israeli forces also targeted facilities linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as well as sites reportedly used for weapons storage and production.
The Israeli military said the ongoing campaign aims to weaken Iran’s military capabilities and disrupt infrastructure connected to its security and defense apparatus.
“IDF operations are continuing to deepen their impact against mechanisms of the Iranian regime in Tehran,” the military said in a statement.
Regional Tensions Continue to Escalate
The conflict has heightened tensions across the Middle East, with both sides escalating military actions and rhetoric.
Security analysts say the situation remains fluid, and developments in the coming days could significantly influence the regional balance of power and global geopolitical stability.
