Tel Aviv: The Israeli Air Force (IAF) on Monday announced the destruction of a strategic aircraft utilized by the Iranian leadership at Tehran’s Mehrabad International Airport, further isolating the Islamic Republic’s high command.

In a statement released on X, the air force declared it had "destroyed the plane of the leader of the Iranian terror regime at the 'Mehrabad' airport in Tehran." Military officials identified the vessel as a primary logistics and diplomatic asset formerly used by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with other high-ranking officials and military personnel.

The IAF characterised the aircraft as essential for "advance military procurement and manage relations with Axis countries through domestic and international flights." By neutralising the plane, Israel aimed to sever the physical links between Tehran and its regional partners.

According to the IDF, "the destruction of the plane impairs the ability to coordinate between the leadership of the Iranian terror regime and Axis countries, in building military power, and in the regime's rehabilitation capability." Military spokespersons added that the successful strike meant "another strategic asset has been removed from the Iranian regime."

Widespread Aerial Offensive

The targeting of the executive aircraft was part of a massive aerial wave on Sunday and Monday. The IAF reported striking more than 200 targets across western and central Iran over a 24-hour period.

"In the past day: The Air Force struck more than 200 targets in western and central Iran and continues to strike the ballistic missile array and defence systems of the Iranian terror regime," the IAF stated on social media.

Military sources confirmed the targets included:

  • Operational headquarters used by Iranian soldiers.
  • Advanced air defence batteries.
  • Facilities dedicated to the production and storage of munitions.

Stealth Deployment

The IAF showcased its technological reach by releasing footage of its F-35I "Adir" stealth fighters en route to the mission.

"He is Adir, and he is also on his way to Iran. Special documentation of F-35I jets on their way to strike," the military posted, referring to the customised Lockheed Martin fifth-generation aircraft. The use of the Adir fleet underscores Israel's ability to penetrate deep into contested Iranian airspace to strike high-value infrastructure.

With inputs from ANI