As tensions in the Middle East escalate, security measures for Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei have been significantly strengthened. On Monday, June 16, Iran International, citing its sources, reported that just hours after Israel launched a large-scale military operation against the Islamic Republic, Khamenei took refuge in a special underground bunker. The source stated that the bunker is located in the Lavizan district in the northeast of Tehran, and not only the Supreme Leader but also his family members are there.
According to reports, this bunker had previously served as Khamenei's main shelter during serious crises — in April and October 2024, when operations against Israel were carried out. This time as well, the Iranian leader and his close ones settled there to protect themselves from potential air and missile strikes.
It should be noted that Israeli security forces are expanding the operation not only to Iran’s center but also to distant parts of the country. For example, on June 15, Israeli forces reportedly struck Mashhad Airport, located 2,300 kilometers away. This strike was reportedly meant to demonstrate to Khamenei that "there is no complete safety anywhere."
The US reaction to the topic also drew attention. According to Reuters, US President Donald Trump firmly vetoed a possible Israeli plan to assassinate Ali Khamenei. One high-ranking White House official said: “Have the Iranians killed even a single American? No. Unless that happens, the idea of eliminating any (Iranian) political leader isn’t even on the table.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in an interview with Fox News in the US, commented on these reports, saying, “There are a lot of false stories right now about conversations that never happened, and I don’t want to be part of that. We are doing what we need to do and we will continue to do what is necessary.” He also added that the United States knows how important its interests are to itself.
Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal, citing an anonymous Israeli official, reported that attacking Khamenei is "not prohibited." They emphasized that if such an operation helps destroy Iran’s nuclear program, Israel is ready to strike any strategic and potentially important targets in the country.
Against the backdrop of these tensions in the Middle East, the risk and level of escalation in the region continue to rise. The Supreme Leader’s refuge in a bunker and the ongoing political chess game on the international stage may further intensify developments. Only time will tell what the consequences will be. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!
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