Iran's New Supreme Leader: War Escalates

0:00On March 8, Iran has selected a new Supreme Leader to replace Ayatollah Ali Kaminay, who died over a week ago in initial U.S. and Israeli air strikes that sparked the current Middle East war. The assembly of experts voted in secret and confirmed the choice, though they have not revealed the name yet. Some reports suggest it could be Kaminay's son. Overnight strikes hit fuel storage sites around Tehran, sending thick smoke over the city and disrupting supplies. Israel's military confirmed the attacks to hinder Iranian forces while issuing warnings that it might target the new leader and assembly members. Separate operations also struck a hotel in Beirut, aimed at Iranian commanders. Civilians in Iran face rising fear amid mounting damage to homes and infrastructure, with the health ministry reporting at least 10,000 to 100 deaths and 10,000 injuries. In Lebanon, strikes have killed nearly 300, raising alarms of a humanitarian crisis. Israel described constant anxiety under the bombardments in heavy security.

1:03Iran's revolutionary guards claimed they hold enough stockpiles for up to six months of drone and missile launches, planning to deploy advanced weapons. Soon. Neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain intercepted attacks or reported hits on key sites such as airports and plants. President Donald Trump attended a ceremony for six U.S. troops killed in a recent drone strike, but insists the conflict nears an end without ruling out, ground forces. As the war hits its ninth day, analysts see no quick resolution ahead.