Israel infiltrated Tehran's traffic camera network to monitor the daily movements of senior Iranian officials ahead of Operation Roaring Lion, according to a report by the Financial Times. Intelligence services mapped a detailed 'life pattern' of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, tracking his travel routes, routines, and close associates. Advanced Artificial Intelligence tools and algorithms were used to analyze large volumes of surveillance data.

The operation also relied on assistance from the United States Central Intelligence Agency, which provided a human source to confirm Khamenei's precise location on the day of the strike. Israeli forces reportedly launched 30 Sparrow missiles at the guarded compound where he was meeting, deploying aircraft during daylight hours to achieve tactical surprise despite heightened alert levels.

Cellular towers in the area were disrupted to prevent security personnel from receiving warning calls. The report states that planning for the mission dates back to 2001, when then prime minister Ariel Sharon directed the Mossad to prioritize Iran as its main intelligence target.