Fact Check: "A diplomatic source stated that Israel targeted the city of Mashhad for the first time as a warning to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei."
What We Know
The claim suggests that Israel has targeted the city of Mashhad, Iran, specifically as a warning to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. However, there is currently no verifiable evidence or credible reports confirming this specific action. As of October 2023, reports indicate that tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated, with various military actions and retaliations occurring, but specific targeting of Mashhad has not been substantiated in mainstream news sources.
Recent developments have shown that Iran's Supreme Leader has vowed revenge against Israel following attacks, but these reports do not confirm any specific targeting of Mashhad by Israel (AP News). Furthermore, while there have been discussions and analyses regarding Israeli military operations against Iranian interests, including strikes deep within Iran, no credible source has explicitly mentioned Mashhad being targeted as a warning to Khamenei (Times of Israel).
Analysis
The claim lacks supporting evidence from reliable sources. The sources available discuss the broader context of the Israel-Iran conflict, including missile exchanges and military strikes, but do not provide specific details about an attack on Mashhad. For instance, while the BBC and AP News cover the ongoing tensions and military actions, they do not corroborate the claim regarding Mashhad.
Additionally, the reliability of the sources discussing the Israel-Iran conflict varies. For example, the Times of Israel is generally regarded as a credible news outlet, but it does not support the specific claim about Mashhad. On the other hand, reports from less established sources or those with potential biases may not provide a clear picture of the situation.
The absence of direct quotes or verified reports from diplomatic sources further complicates the validity of the claim. Without concrete evidence or reliable testimony, it remains speculative.
Conclusion
Needs Research. The claim that Israel targeted Mashhad as a warning to Khamenei is not supported by credible evidence or reliable sources. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran is complex and fraught with misinformation, and further investigation is necessary to ascertain the truth behind such claims.
Sources
- Israel - The World Factbook
- Israel – Wikipedia
- Iran hits Israel with a second wave of missiles | AP News
- Israel country profile - BBC News
- June 2025 Israeli strikes on Iran - Wikipedia
- Israel kills Iranian intel chiefs, strikes deep inside Iran, opens 'air corridor to Tehran'
- Israel-Iran Attack LIVE Updates: Iran's Khamenei Hid In ...
- Trump vetoed Israeli proposal to assassinate Iran's supreme leader
