Middle East War: US Believes Khamenei Directs Conflict, Kuwait Intercepts Iranian Attacks

The United States believes that Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is alive and playing an increasingly central role in the country's governance, according to remarks by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Despite ongoing negotiations to end the conflict, Rubio noted signs of Khamenei's growing involvement, even though communications have reportedly been conducted through intermediaries.

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I think there are signs that he is increasingly involved at a certain level, even if all his communications have been in writing and through third parties.

Meanwhile, Kuwaiti air defenses were activated early Wednesday to intercept a barrage of missiles and drones, an attack attributed to Iran. This incident follows similar events two days prior, highlighting the escalating regional tensions. The national news agency Kuna reported that air raid sirens sounded for the second time in one night, underscoring the heightened security concerns.

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Kuwait's air defenses are intercepting hostile drone and missile attacks.

In a separate development, Iran has begun to restore international internet access after a prolonged shutdown that began on February 28. While a semblance of online connectivity has returned, allowing citizens to share messages and videos, reports indicate that the regime is simultaneously intensifying repression. Journalist Elaheh Mohammadi described the situation on her X page, noting the mixed emotions of relief and apprehension among Iranians reconnecting to the global network.

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Little by little, we are reconnecting to the network and sending each other messages. One holds back tears. Another rushes to their parents to connect their phone to the internet. One says they can't believe they held on for so long. Another says hats off to all of you, hats off to the Iranian people.