Explosions heard in Tehran in ongoing wave of US-Israel attacks • FRANCE 24 English

FRANCE 24 EnglishAbout 4 min readMar 1, 2026Watch original
THE SUMMARYAI-generated

Key Concepts

  • Operation Targeting Leadership: A military operation seemingly aimed at dismantling the Iranian leadership structure ("decapitation").
  • State Media Reports: Information originating from Iranian state-controlled media outlets, including claims of casualties within the Supreme Leader’s family.
  • Explosion Waves: Two distinct periods of explosions – an initial wave at 9:30 AM local time and a resurgence around 7:45 PM local time.
  • Public Reaction: Initial panic and a subsequent quiet on the streets of Tehran, indicating people have sought shelter.
  • Donald Trump’s Address: A call from the US President for the Iranian people to protest against their government.

Situation Report from Tehran – October [Date Not Specified]

The reporting from Tehran, as of 9:30 PM local time, indicates a highly volatile situation following initial attacks that began approximately 12 hours prior, around 9:30 AM local time. Following a period of relative calm lasting several hours, a second wave of explosions commenced around 7:45 PM local time. The exact number of explosions in this second wave is currently unknown – described as “three, four, five more explosions as we speak” – and their origin and targets remain unconfirmed.

Initial Attacks & Public Response (9:30 AM Local Time)

The first wave of attacks resulted in visible plumes of smoke rising from the center of downtown Tehran. Reports suggest that the offices of the Supreme Leader were among the targets. The immediate public reaction was characterized by widespread panic. Individuals were observed “scrambling for safety,” appearing “stunned and confused,” and actively seeking information about the attacks via mobile phones and by looking towards the sky to identify the source of the incoming projectiles. A significant number of parents rushed to retrieve their children from school, contributing to a general atmosphere of urgency and fear.

Current Situation & Street Activity (9:30 PM Local Time)

As of 9:30 PM local time, the streets of Tehran are unusually quiet for a Saturday – the first day of the work week – suggesting a mass exodus of people seeking shelter. There is currently no indication of public protests or demonstrations, despite a call from US President Donald Trump earlier in the day for the Iranian people to “take their government.” The reporter notes the streets are “bustling” on a normal Saturday, highlighting the unusual level of inactivity.

Reported Casualties & Targeting of Leadership

Iranian state media is reporting the deaths of the Supreme Leader’s son-in-law and daughter-in-law during the initial attacks on their residence. This information is being disseminated by “multiple Iranian media inside Iran and the media close to the regime.” Additionally, state media reports indicate that three members of the Basij paramilitary force have been killed.

The reporter emphasizes that the targeting of the Supreme Leader’s family, coupled with the earlier targeting of his offices, and attacks on military and government leaders, strongly suggests a deliberate strategy to “decapitate” the Iranian leadership. This implies a focused effort to dismantle the command structure of the Iranian government.

US Presidential Address

US President Donald Trump issued an address calling on the Iranian people to protest against their government. The reporter notes the anticipation surrounding whether this call will incite public unrest.

Technical Note: Basij

The Basij is a paramilitary volunteer militia organization in Iran, affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It plays a significant role in internal security and suppressing dissent.

Logical Connections

The report establishes a clear timeline of events, moving from the initial attacks and public reaction to the current situation and reported casualties. The connection between the targeting of the Supreme Leader’s family and offices is highlighted as evidence of a strategic attempt to destabilize the Iranian government. The inclusion of President Trump’s address provides context regarding potential external influences on the unfolding situation.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The situation in Tehran remains highly unstable and uncertain. The second wave of explosions indicates a continuation of the attacks, while the reported casualties, particularly within the Supreme Leader’s family, suggest a deliberate and aggressive operation targeting the core of the Iranian leadership. The quiet streets, despite the call for protests, suggest a population prioritizing safety and remaining in a state of heightened alert. The overall picture is one of significant disruption and potential for further escalation.

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