The supreme leader has named four layers of succession for every military and government role he appoints.
All leaders have been told to name up to four replacements.
A tight circle has been delegated authority to make decisions if Khamenei is killed or communications are cut.
Iran learned from June, when Israel wiped out the senior military command chain in the first hours.They're not making that mistake twice.
The regime is also identifying who could be "the Delcy of Iran"... someone to negotiate with Washington if leadership falls.
Iran is operating on the assumption that U.S. strikes are inevitable.
Missile launchers are positioned along the Iraqi border within range of Israel and along the Gulf coast within range of U.S. bases.
All armed forces are on highest alert.
Khamenei :"The most powerful military in the world might receive such a slap that it won't be able to get on its feet.