Emergency Exit Plan in Place
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has prepared an emergency plan to leave the country if mass unrest threatens his hold on power, according to intelligence cited by The Times. The plan involves Khamenei departing Tehran with fewer than two dozen close relatives and senior aides, including his son Mojtaba. The move would activate if security forces fail to enforce orders or show signs of defection.
Russia Seen as Likely Destination
Intelligence sources say Iran has mapped escape routes, logistics, and access to cash and overseas assets. Former Israeli intelligence officer Beni Sabti said Russia would likely host Khamenei, citing his close ties with President Vladimir Putin. The report draws parallels with former Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad’s flight to Moscow in December 2024. Protests driven by economic hardship have spread across Iran, while Khamenei remains out of public view amid concerns over his health and regime stability.
