Israeli intelligence operatives reportedly infiltrated Tehran's traffic camera network for years, using the system to monitor Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his security detail, and other senior Iranian officials. By accessing nearly all of the city's surveillance cameras, agents tracked bodyguards’ movements, mapped their routines, and identified key locations, including parking areas near the Supreme Leader’s compound. The surveillance effort formed part of a long-running intelligence campaign aimed at penetrating the highest levels of Iran’s leadership.

The operation culminated in a large-scale daylight airstrike in Tehran, during which Israeli jets launched up to 30 precision munitions at Khamenei’s complex. Communication networks near the site were reportedly disrupted to prevent warnings from reaching security personnel. Intelligence gathered from surveillance systems, advanced data analysis tools, and a human source enabled officials to confirm Khamenei’s location before carrying out the strike. He was killed in the bombardment along with several senior military leaders and close family members.

The assassination triggered rapid regional escalation. Iran launched retaliatory strikes across multiple neighboring Gulf states, while clashes intensified between Israeli forces and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The United States signaled possible deeper involvement, with President Donald Trump warning of further action and indicating that ground troops could be deployed if deemed necessary.