ballistic missiles, marking a significant escalation amid rapidly unfolding regional tensions. The statement was issued in communiqué No. 7 related to Operation “True Promise 4,” in which the Guard described the strike as part of what it called “heroic actions” carried out by the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran against what it referred to as American and Zionist enemy targets.

According to the official text, Iranian armed forces have entered what was described as a new phase of confrontation, asserting that powerful strikes had been launched against what it characterized as a weakened military adversary. The statement further claimed that land and sea would increasingly become a “graveyard for terrorist aggressors,” reflecting both heightened rhetoric and a deepening military standoff.

The announcement follows hours after reports declaring the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei as a result of what was described as a U.S.-Israeli attack targeting Iran on Saturday. This development has significantly intensified tensions and prompted swift official responses from Tehran.

In response, Iran’s Armed Forces General Staff issued a statement vowing that the enemies of the nation, led by the United States and what it called the Zionist regime, would face strong retaliation “with strength and firmness and with the support of the people.” The statement emphasized that the armed forces would continue the path drawn by Khamenei “until the last drop of blood and until the enemies surrender,” according to the official wording.

Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian announced on Sunday that the interim leadership council had officially begun its duties, affirming that what he described as the crimes of criminals would not deter the Iranian government from carrying out its responsibilities. The statements collectively signal a period of acute escalation, with regional and international observers closely monitoring the unfolding situation and its broader security implications.