Iranian President Injured in Targeted Israeli Airstrike

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian sustained a minor leg injury during an Israeli airstrike on June 16, as reported by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)-affiliated Fars News Agency. The missile strike targeted a building in western Tehran where a meeting of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council was underway. This attack has raised significant concerns about security and intelligence breaches within Iran.

High-Profile Meeting Under Attack

The meeting, attended by key Iranian figures including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Judiciary Chief Mohseni Ejei, was abruptly disrupted by the airstrike. The Israeli operation reportedly mirrored the assassination tactics used against Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Beirut. Six missiles strategically targeted the building’s entry and exit points, aiming to trap the officials inside and cut off airflow.

Escape Amid Chaos

Despite the chaos, Iranian officials managed to escape through an emergency hatch prepared in advance. The power to the floor was cut following the explosions, adding to the confusion. Alongside President Pezeshkian, several other officials suffered minor injuries while making their escape.

Concerns Over Intelligence Breach

The precision of the attack has led Iranian authorities to suspect an infiltrator may have provided critical information to Israel. This incident underscores ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel, with accusations of espionage and targeted assassinations heightening regional instability.

Historical Context of Israeli-Iranian Tensions

The airstrike is part of a broader conflict that saw Israeli forces targeting several top Iranian military leaders and nuclear scientists over a 12-day period. Notable figures such as IRGC commander Hossein Salami and Iranian Armed Forces Chief Mohammad Bagheri were reportedly killed during this time. Previous reports also suggested plans to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, although these did not materialize.