Middle East

Iranians “didn’t suddenly decide to reject the Islamic Republic,” said Noor. “Each generation tried to see if the system could change, and each time the answer was repression."

The top tier of Iran's remaining air defenses consists of mobile anti-aircraft missiles, often grouped together in a dozen or more on a vehicle, around 92% of which have been destroyed.

This would be the first time Iran has hit a US aircraft in the war. Both the US and Israel are using F-35s, which are fifth-generation stealth jets costing upwards of $100 million.

IDF sources say Iran's military power has been 'set back years' in every area • Despite that, military sources unsure if strikes will be enough to get Iranian protesters to topple regime

Since the start of the war against Iran, Israel has dropped around 12,000 bombs, including 3,600 within the Tehran region alone.

The majority of Iranian military and security personnel were reportedly killed at Azadi Stadium, one of the largest soccer stadiums in the region. 

The footage shows RT correspondent Steve Sweeney just before the sound of an incoming strike can be heard. Sweeney is seen diving forward as a blast strikes behind him.

"The objectives that have been laid out by the president are different from the objectives that have been laid out by the Israeli government," Gabbard said.

Dr. Najah Al-Otaibi, a Saudi researcher specializing in international relations and the Gulf region, told The Jerusalem Post that Iran’s attacks constitute “a betrayal of the diplomatic detente.”

Despite Hegseth's claims, US General Dan Caine did note that Iran still maintained "some capability" of launching strikes across the Gulf during the briefing.