Officials reject nuclear radiation rumors after a strike near Tehran, while online claims about leadership changes and “toxic rain” trigger widespread debate
Reports circulating on social media have sparked controversy after claims that former U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iran of “dangerous consequences” if the son of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei were chosen as the country’s next supreme leader.
The claims gained traction Monday alongside unverified posts suggesting that Iran had already selected Khamenei’s son for the powerful role. However, Iranian officials have not confirmed any leadership change, and no official announcement has been made regarding a successor.
At the same time, online messages warning of “toxic rain” across parts of Iran and neighboring regions have raised public concern following reports of a strike near Tehran.
Iranian authorities and regional analysts have dismissed rumors of nuclear radiation. According to officials, the overnight strike targeted oil facilities, sending thick smoke and microscopic oil particles into the atmosphere. Experts say these particles may mix with clouds and fall back to the ground with rainfall, potentially causing polluted or oily rain but not radioactive contamination.
“If there had been nuclear radiation, the impact would already be catastrophic,” one regional security analyst said, noting that large-scale casualties would likely have occurred.
Authorities have advised residents to take normal precautions during rainfall, including avoiding prolonged exposure to polluted rainwater.
The situation remains fluid as officials continue to monitor environmental conditions and address misinformation spreading online.

