The Israeli military has launched a significant airstrike campaign against Iran, targeting its nuclear facilities and military sites. This operation, named "Rising Lion," has resulted in the deaths of several high-ranking Iranian officials and nuclear scientists. The strikes have raised concerns about the potential for a broader conflict in the region.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the airstrikes were intended to weaken Iran’s nuclear capabilities and ballistic missile production. He emphasized that Israel would continue its operations until it felt secure from threats against its existence. The Israeli military confirmed that around 200 fighter jets were involved in the strikes, hitting over 100 targets across Iran, including key locations in Tehran and the uranium enrichment site in Natanz.
In the aftermath of the attacks, Iranian state media reported numerous casualties, including the deaths of Hossein Salami, the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and other senior military figures. The International Atomic Energy Agency stated that there were no immediate signs of increased radiation levels at the targeted sites.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, responded to the strikes with a warning to Israel, stating that it should prepare for a "bitter and painful fate." Iran’s government has insisted that it has the right to retaliate, claiming that the United States was complicit in the Israeli strikes.
In retaliation, Iran reportedly launched about 100 drones towards Israeli territory. The Israeli military is actively working to intercept these drones. Sirens sounded across Israel as a precaution, and the country has restricted movement to essential activities only. Additionally, Israel has closed its airspace for flights.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the U.S. was not involved in the Israeli attacks, urging Iran not to target American interests in the region. The situation remains tense, with the potential for further escalation as Iran considers its response and the U.S. weighs its involvement.
As the conflict intensifies, the international community is closely monitoring developments. The outcome of this confrontation could significantly impact regional stability and the ongoing nuclear negotiations between the U.S. and Iran.