Fact Check: IDF launches wave of attacks in Tehran as Iran's Supreme Leader goes underground.

Fact Check: "IDF launches wave of attacks in Tehran as Iran's Supreme Leader goes underground."

What We Know

Recent reports indicate that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have conducted extensive airstrikes in Tehran, targeting significant military and nuclear facilities, including the notorious Evin prison and access routes to the Fordo uranium enrichment plant. According to the BBC, these strikes were part of a broader campaign aimed at what Israel describes as "regime targets and agencies of government repression" in Iran. The attacks reportedly resulted in significant damage and casualties, with Iranian authorities claiming that around 500 people have been killed, although other sources estimate the toll to be as high as 950 (BBC).

In conjunction with these military actions, Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has not been seen in public for nearly two weeks, leading to speculation about his safety and whereabouts (ABC News). This absence has fueled rumors that he may be "going underground" in response to the escalating conflict.

Analysis

The claim that the IDF has launched a wave of attacks in Tehran is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The New York Times reported that over 50 warplanes were deployed in the strikes, targeting various military and nuclear sites. This aligns with statements from the IDF confirming their operations against Iranian military infrastructure (AP News).

However, the assertion that Iran's Supreme Leader has gone underground is more speculative. While his absence from public view is noted, it is not confirmed that this is a direct response to the attacks. The Washington Post discusses the challenges Khamenei faces amid the conflict but does not provide definitive evidence that he is in hiding. The credibility of the sources reporting on Khamenei's absence varies; while major news outlets like the ABC News and Washington Post are generally reliable, the context of Khamenei's situation remains ambiguous.

Moreover, the reports of casualties and damage from the strikes are corroborated by various human rights organizations and media outlets, though the exact numbers may vary and should be approached with caution due to potential biases in reporting (BBC, AP News).

Conclusion

The claim that the IDF has launched a wave of attacks in Tehran is True, supported by multiple credible sources detailing military actions and their impacts. However, the assertion regarding Iran's Supreme Leader going underground is Partially True; while there is evidence of his absence from public life, the reasons for this are not definitively established. Therefore, the overall verdict on the claim is Partially True.