Intelligence mapped daily movements ahead of Operation Roaring Lion
Jerusalem: Israel hacked into Tehranโs traffic camera network to monitor the movements of Iranโs Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei before assassinating him during Operation Roaring Lion, the Financial Times reported Monday.
According to the report, Israeli intelligence agencies built a detailed โlife patternโ of Khamenei and his security entourage. Analysts tracked his travel routes, daily schedule, and the identities of senior officials who frequently accompanied him. Consequently, planners identified predictable routines and vulnerabilities.
Moreover, Israel used artificial intelligence tools and advanced algorithms to sift through vast amounts of surveillance data. The system reportedly processed video feeds and other intelligence streams to pinpoint optimal timing and location for the strike.
In addition, the US Central Intelligence Agency provided a human source who confirmed Khameneiโs precise whereabouts on the day of the attack, the report said. That verification allowed Israeli planners to finalize operational details.
Missile barrage and communications disruption ensured strike success
The Financial Times said Israeli forces launched about 30 Sparrow missiles at the compound where Khamenei was meeting senior officials. Although Iranian forces maintained a high alert level, Israeli aircraft struck during daylight hours to achieve tactical surprise.
Furthermore, operatives disrupted nearby cellular towers before the เคนเคฎเคฒเคพ. As a result, security personnel could not receive warning calls or coordinate an immediate response.
The operation combined signals intelligence, cyber penetration of communication networks, and real-time human verification, the report added.
Planning for the mission reportedly began in 2001, when thenโPrime Minister Ariel Sharon directed the Mossad to prioritize Iran as a primary intelligence target.
Neither Israeli nor Iranian officials immediately commented on the Financial Times report.
