According to a report by The Times of Israel on Friday, March 6, 2026, the Israeli military carried out a major aerial operation targeting a fortified underground complex located beneath a leadership compound in central Tehran. Israeli defense officials said the facility had been constructed as a secure bunker intended for Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Military authorities stated that around 50 Israeli Air Force fighter jets participated in the strike, which was reportedly conducted using detailed intelligence information. The objective of the operation was to destroy the subterranean command structure believed to have served as a protected headquarters for senior Iranian leadership during times of conflict.
Israeli military spokespersons explained that the bunker had been designed as an emergency command center capable of supporting strategic coordination during wartime. Despite earlier reports suggesting that Khamenei had died earlier in the conflict, officials claimed that the underground facility continued to host high-ranking Iranian personnel responsible for directing operations.
The network of tunnels and rooms beneath the compound reportedly stretched under several streets in central Tehran. According to military assessments, the complex included multiple entrances, conference rooms, and secured sections that could be used for military planning and leadership meetings.
Israeli authorities described the attack as a significant step in disrupting Iran’s command and control structure. By targeting the deeply fortified site, they said the operation aimed to prevent the location from continuing to function as a key hub for strategic coordination.
Analysts say the strike highlights Israel’s focus on high-value military and leadership infrastructure as the conflict continues. Destroying such facilities could weaken Iran’s ability to organize and manage operations, particularly during critical stages of the confrontation.
The operation is seen as part of a wider campaign focused on limiting Tehran’s operational capabilities and reducing the effectiveness of its military leadership networks.