The CIA had been tracking Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for months, ultimately supplying critical information to Israel that enabled them to target him effectively during a meeting scheduled with other Iranian officials. According to reports by the New York Times, the original plan was to conduct an attack on Tehran on the night of February 27, but it was postponed when the CIA learned of a significant meeting occurring on the following morning.

The intelligence confirmed that Khamenei would be in attendance at his residence complex during this gathering, which included numerous high-ranking officials. This strategic revelation allowed Israel to plan a more effective operation that could potentially eliminate multiple targets in one strike. The operation ultimately began at around 6:00 AM on February 28, with Israeli combat aircraft launching from their bases.

The implications of this operation are significant, as it demonstrates the depth of cooperation between the CIA and Israeli intelligence, particularly in matters of national security concerning Iran. Such operations, if successful, could escalate tensions in the region and provoke further military responses from Iran, highlighting the delicate balance of power and ongoing conflict between these nations.