Israel says hit Iran internal security sites, missile launchers

In early March 2026, Israel conducted extensive airstrikes targeting Iran's internal security apparatus and military infrastructure. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) specifically targeted Basij and internal security command centers throughout Tehran, which were described as facilities used by the Iranian regime to maintain control and suppress protests through violent measures and civilian arrests. These strikes were part of Operation Epic Fury, a broader conflict that began on February 28, 2026, with joint U.S.-Israeli operations.

The IDF also struck ballistic missile storage facilities in central Tehran, including both above-ground and underground sites used to store ballistic missiles and missiles designed to target aircraft. In a significant escalation, Israeli forces hit Iran's leadership compound in Tehran, targeting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps command center, Presidential Office, and Supreme National Security Council buildings. Approximately 100 Israeli fighter jets dropped over 250 bombs on this complex, which the IDF characterized as "the most central and significant headquarters of the Iranian regime."

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These operations occurred within the context of broader regional conflict, with Israel reporting strikes on over 3,400 targets in Iran and 600 in Lebanon, destroying approximately 60% of Iran's missile launchers. The U.S. conducted over 1,700 strikes as part of the joint campaign, while the Israeli Air Force flew 1,600 sorties dropping 4,000 munitions. The conflict resulted from escalating tensions that culminated in the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during initial strikes.

Iran retaliated with missile barrages on Israel, causing at least 11 deaths and over 1,000 injuries since February 28, and also targeted U.S. bases and Gulf states. Iranian forces launched over 2,000 drones and ballistic missiles, though their frequency declined due to degraded capabilities. Casualties included at least 1,230 in Iran, 300+ in Lebanon, and a dozen in Israel, with a seventh U.S. service member killed. Following the death of Ali Khamenei, his son Mojtaba Khamenei was named Iran's new supreme leader. U.S. President Trump demanded Iran's "unconditional surrender" with no timetable and deployed a third carrier group to the region.