Israel Launches Major Strikes on Iranian Nuclear and Military Targets

 

June 13, 2025 – Tehran, Iran – Israel has initiated a large-scale military operation against Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, missile factories, and key military installations, according to multiple sources. The operation, dubbed "Rising Lion" by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, began in the early hours of Friday, with explosions reported across Tehran and other cities, including Natanz, a key site for Iran’s nuclear program.

Israeli officials, including Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, described the attacks as a "preemptive strike" aimed at disrupting Iran’s nuclear ambitions and preventing the development of atomic weapons. The Israeli military claims to have hit dozens of targets, including Iran’s main uranium enrichment facility and the headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Iranian state media confirmed the death of IRGC Chief Commander Major General Hossein Salami, along with nuclear scientists Fereydoun Abbasi-Davani and Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi. Several civilian casualties were also reported, with residential areas near military sites affected.

Netanyahu, in a televised address, called the operation a “decisive moment in Israel’s history,” stating it would continue “for as many days as necessary to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s survival.” He urged Israeli citizens to follow safety protocols, as the country declared a state of emergency in anticipation of retaliatory missile and drone strikes from Iran.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed a “harsh and decisive” response, condemning the attacks as a “bitter and painful destiny” for Israel. Iran’s Foreign Ministry accused the United States of complicity, claiming the strikes could not have occurred without U.S. coordination, a charge denied by U.S. officials. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the U.S. was not involved in the strikes but warned Iran against targeting American interests or personnel.

The international community has reacted with alarm. The United Nations Secretary-General condemned the escalation, expressing concern over attacks on nuclear installations while U.S.-Iran nuclear talks were ongoing in Oman. Oman’s state news agency called the strikes a threat to regional stability, urging diplomatic solutions. Global markets reacted sharply, with oil prices surging over 9% due to fears of disrupted supplies.

Iranian media reported significant damage in Tehran, with footage showing burning buildings and debris in residential areas. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, a major power center controlling the country’s ballistic missile arsenal, vowed retaliation, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. Israel’s military chief of staff, Eyal Zamir, stated that Iran’s nuclear program had reached a “point of no return,” justifying the extensive airstrikes.

The attacks come amid heightened tensions over Iran’s nuclear program, with the U.S. and Israel accusing Tehran of non-compliance with nonproliferation obligations. President Donald Trump, who had warned of a potential “massive conflict” on June 12, reiterated his preference for a diplomatic resolution but noted that Israel’s actions were unilateral. The White House confirmed a National Security Council meeting to address the crisis.

As the situation unfolds, Israel has closed schools and heightened security measures, while Iran is reportedly preparing a response. The international community braces for potential escalation, with analysts warning of the risk of a wider war involving U.S. and regional allies.