Tehran, Iran — The people of Iran buried their old leader today. The streets were full of tears and black clothes.
Then the missiles flew.
Just hours after Mojtaba Khamenei took power as the new Supreme Leader, the military made an announcement. They were launching missiles toward Israel. Early reports on IRGC missile capabilities range suggest some projectiles traveled deep into Israeli airspace before interception.
In Israel, families heard the sirens. A mother in Ashkelon held her children close. "We knew this might happen," she said. "A new leader has something to prove." Across the country, civilians are closely watching Israel Home Front Command updates for shelter instructions and safety zones.
In Tehran, a young student watched the news from a cafe. "We buried our father today," he said. "Now we wait for what comes next. The train is moving too fast."
Meanwhile, global markets reacted instantly. Brent crude oil price live charts showed a sharp spike within hours of the launch, and defense stocks surge as investors priced in prolonged conflict. Analysts revising the oil price forecast 2026 now warn of sustained highs if the Strait of Hormuz becomes unstable.
The new leader faces a simple problem. He has the title, but he needs the power. By striking fast, he sends a message to his own people, to his army, and to the world: "I am strong. I am in charge." Many are now searching for Mojtaba Khamenei military background to understand whether this decision reflects personal conviction or pressure from hardliners.
For those seeking safe haven assets during war, gold and the US dollar both climbed as markets opened. The Pentagon has also issued an updated US State Department travel warning Iran, urging citizens to depart immediately via commercial means where available.
Tonight, families in both countries look at the same sky. Some watch for falling fire. Others watch for the future.