Image: from Al Blaze X @AlBlazeEng
By Open Chronicle Staff with Agencies | Monday, March 9, 2026
TEHRAN — In a major escalation of the ongoing regional war, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) has launched its 30th wave of “Operation True Promise 4,” targeting U.S. and Israeli military positions with a sophisticated barrage of drones and missiles. The strikes mark the first major military action sanctioned by the Islamic Republic’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei.
The IRGC’s Public Relations office confirmed the operation early Monday, stating that Khorramshahr, Fattah, and Khaibar missiles were deployed alongside strategic long-range drones. Warning sirens were reported across northern and central Israel as the projectiles entered its airspace.
The Rise of the Third Leader
The military offensive serves as a lethal introduction for 57-year-old Mojtaba Khamenei, who was officially confirmed as the third Supreme Leader by the Temporary Assembly of Experts. Invoking Articles 108 and 111 of the Iranian Constitution, the Assembly called on all citizens and the armed forces to pledge immediate allegiance to the new leader.
Mojtaba, the second son of the late Ali Khamenei, has long been a shadow figure within the “House of the Leader,” reportedly wielding significant control over the Basij forces and military intelligence. His transition to formal power follows the February 28 coalition strikes that killed his father and several high-ranking officials.
Israel Braces for “Extended Confrontation”
In response to the 30th wave of attacks, the Israeli military has significantly raised its alert levels. Reports from Yedioth Ahronoth indicate that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are preparing for a conflict that could last at least another month. Air defense systems have been reinforced, and additional troops have been deployed to various fronts.
The political rhetoric has sharpened alongside the military exchanges. Israeli Parliament Speaker Amir Ohana issued a stark warning to the new Iranian leader on social media. Posting images of assassinated regional figures, including the late Ali Khamenei, Ohana wrote in Hebrew: “Whoever follows their path will become like them.”
A Resilient Command Structure
Military analysts suggest that the speed and coordination of this latest wave of strikes indicate that Iran’s command and control structure remains largely intact despite the loss of its top leadership.
The use of the “Fattah” hypersonic missile and the “Khaibar” long-range system demonstrates Tehran’s continued capability to strike strategic targets across the Middle East. As the conflict intensifies, the international community remains on edge, with oil prices surging past $100 per barrel and regional stability at risk.