In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, Israel launched widespread airstrikes across Iran on Friday, targeting what it claimed were nuclear sites, missile facilities, and high-ranking military personnel. The Israeli government described the operation, dubbed “Operation Rising Lion,” as a necessary measure to prevent Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
According to Iranian state media and eyewitness reports, explosions were heard at multiple sites, including the Natanz uranium enrichment facility, a cornerstone of Iran’s nuclear programme. Iranian officials confirmed at least 78 people were killed, including Revolutionary Guards Commander Hossein Salami, nuclear scientist Fereydoun Abbasi, and military chief Mohammad Bagheri.
“We are at a decisive moment in Israel’s history,” said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a televised statement. “This operation will continue for as many days as necessary to eliminate the Iranian threat to our existence.”
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The attack, which included both aerial bombardment and covert sabotage operations led by Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency, reportedly struck key military and nuclear targets. Residential areas were also affected, with reports of civilian deaths, including children, in Tehran.
The Iranian government accused Israel of committing a “crime against humanity,” and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed retaliation, warning that Israel would face a “bitter fate.”
Regional and Global Reactions
The United States denied any involvement in the strikes. President Donald Trump, speaking to Fox News, reiterated that Iran “must never have a nuclear bomb,” but emphasized hopes to return to diplomacy. The U.S. National Security Council convened for emergency discussions, while the State Department ordered American personnel in Israel to shelter in place.
Meanwhile, Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport was shut down and Israel placed its air defence systems on high alert, bracing for possible Iranian retaliation via missiles or drones.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed that Israel had acted unilaterally and that “the US was not involved,” but warned Iran against targeting American assets.
