Israeli officials have disclosed that the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was the culmination of years of intelligence gathering, digital surveillance and advanced technological monitoring that enabled a precision strike on his location.
According to sources cited by CNN, the operation relied on a sophisticated intelligence network that combined multiple data streams, including footage from surveillance cameras across Tehran.
One Israeli official revealed that traffic cameras throughout the Iranian capital were instrumental in tracking movements. The cameras, allegedly infiltrated years earlier, reportedly provided real-time visuals that allowed operatives to map the city, analyse behavioural patterns and build a detailed operational picture.
The surveillance feeds were said to be integrated into an artificial intelligence-driven targeting platform described as a “target production machine.” The system reportedly processed visual data, human intelligence, intercepted communications, signals intelligence and satellite imagery.
From this data, the system generated precise grid coordinates identifying the intended target’s location. Officials noted that the platform, developed over more than a decade, required teams of engineers, technologists and analysts to verify strike recommendations produced by the AI framework.
The technology had reportedly been deployed previously to monitor senior Iranian figures. During the 12-day conflict in June 2025, the Israel Defense Forces allegedly used the system in an initial strike that eliminated Iran’s top military commander and a close associate of Khamenei.
The strike that ultimately killed Khamenei was reportedly carried out on February 28, 2026, in a joint mission involving Israel and the United States.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that the Iranian leader had long been considered difficult to target due to his use of underground bunkers and limited communications.
Prior to the operation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held discussions with US President Donald Trump on February 11. Reports indicate the talks centred on potential scenarios should diplomatic engagements with Iran collapse.
At 3:38 p.m. Eastern Time, Trump reportedly authorised the mission. US military official Gen. Dan Caine confirmed the decision, saying the daylight strike was executed by Israeli forces with support from the US intelligence community.
According to the report, surveillance from Tehran’s camera network and other intelligence channels helped determine when Khamenei would be at his compound and identify a potential security vulnerability.
Sources indicated that communications among senior aides and security personnel were monitored before the strike was launched during daylight hours.
Shortly after the operation, Israeli authorities signalled preliminary success. Confirmation later followed when Iran’s state broadcaster announced that the country’s Supreme Leader had died.