Iran’s supreme leader has reportedly been moved to a heavily fortified underground shelter amid growing concerns over a possible US military strike, as tensions between Tehran and Washington continue to rise.
The move follows warnings from senior Iranian military figures about an increased risk of US action, while protests persist across the country and security forces intensify a deadly crackdown. The bunker is said to be designed for wartime protection. During this period, the Ayatollah’s third son, Masoud Khamenei, is reported to have assumed responsibility for managing his father’s daily affairs as the leader remains out of public view.
The heightened state of alert comes after comments made last week by US President Donald Trump, who said American warships were being sent toward Iran “just in case” military action becomes necessary.
“We have a massive fleet heading in that direction, and maybe we won’t have to use it,” Trump said.
A US Navy official confirmed on Thursday that the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, along with accompanying warships, is currently in the Indian Ocean and moving closer to the Middle East.
Relations between Iran and the United States have remained strained since protests broke out on December 28, sparked by the sharp collapse of Iran’s currency, the rial. The demonstrations have been met with a violent response from Iranian authorities.
President Trump has repeatedly warned Tehran, outlining two red lines for potential military intervention: the killing of peaceful protesters and the mass execution of those detained during the unrest.
Although Iran is reported to have halted the execution of around 800 people arrested during the protests, US officials say Trump remains angered by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s handling of the crisis.
On Sunday, January 25, an Iranian official warned that any US attack would spark a full-scale conflict, as Washington continues to strengthen its military presence in the region.
