NYT: Ayatollah Khamenei Is Still Hiding In A Bunker.

• 26.06.2025, 9:00

Iran's supreme leader fears assassination attempt.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been holed up in a bunker for more than a week, fearing an assassination attempt by Israel.

As The New York Times reported on June 26, citing sources in Iran, Khamenei has not made a single statement or recorded message, and his absence is worrisome mainly because of the need for his approval for any military action or agreements.

It was previously reported that Khamenei, 86, communicates with military commanders only through a trusted envoy and has appointed interim deputies in the chain of command, including three religious figures who could take over in the event of his death.

It was also reported that Khamenei has instructed the Council of Experts to act quickly in the event of his removal. The move shows the seriousness of the threat he sees in the current situation.

Iran's Intelligence Ministry has ordered government employees to stop using their phones and the internet has been almost completely shut down across the country. International calls were blocked and decision-makers were moved to secure underground facilities.

Sources in Tehran say the Israeli and US attacks have caused massive damage - hundreds dead, thousands injured, partial power cuts, damage to oil industry facilities and nuclear infrastructure.