On Saturday, February 28, Tehran residents were embarking on the working week during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, nervously anticipating celebrations for the Iranian New Year against the background of diplomatic efforts to stave off war with the US and Israel.
That morning, there was also activity around and inside the main government complex in Tehran just off Pasteur Street in the heart of the capital, which housed the residence and offices of then supreme leader Ali Khamenei.