/Tel Aviv, Israel – In a dramatic development reflecting the escalating military and intelligence tensions between the two sides, the Israeli military claimed on Monday to have successfully destroyed the private plane of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, describing it as a “strategic asset” of the Iranian regime. According to Israeli claims, the operation targeted the presidential aircraft while it was at Mehrabad Airport in Tehran.
Details of the Israeli claims
The Israeli military published a report in Persian on its “X” platform (formerly Twitter), claiming that the aircraft was not merely a means of transport for the Supreme Leader and senior regime officials, but also an effective logistical and military tool. The statement alleged that the aircraft was used by elements within the Iranian armed forces to facilitate military procurement. Furthermore, sensitive communications with countries within the so-called “Axis of Resistance” were managed through frequent domestic and international flights.
The Israeli military emphasized in its report that “destroying this aircraft will severely damage the Iranian command’s ability to coordinate operations on the ground.” It asserted that the operation aimed to cripple “the process of bolstering military strength and the ability to rebuild the logistical system.” The report further explained that this system connects Tehran with its allies in the region.
Iranian secrecy and difficulty in verification
In contrast, there is complete silence in official circles and media outlets affiliated with the Islamic Republic of Iran; no denial or confirmation of these reports has been issued as of the time of this writing. Radio Farda, for its part, indicated that it is impossible to independently verify the Israeli claims. This is due to the ongoing war, the internet blackout, and the restrictions imposed on the flow of information within Iran.
Observers believe that choosing Mehrabad Airport specifically as the site of the alleged operation carries serious security implications, given the airport’s historical and security significance and its proximity to decision-making centers in Tehran. While Israel is promoting the operation as an intelligence achievement aimed at “severing sovereign communication lines,” the situation on the ground remains contingent on future developments. Satellite imagery may reveal more details in the future.
