Israel Iran Tensions: Airstrikes Hit Tehran, Nuclear Sites Targeted
Israel Iran Tensions: Tensions in the Middle East have escalated dramatically as Israel launched large-scale airstrikes on Iran early Friday morning. The military operation, named “Operation Rising Lion,” targeted key nuclear and military installations in cities like Tehran, Natanz, Fordow, and Khojir. Israel claims the strikes were aimed at crippling Iran’s nuclear programme and missile capabilities. Several top Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists have reportedly been killed, triggering alarm at both regional and global levels.
Details of the Attack: Operation Rising Lion
The Israeli Air Force (IAF) deployed its advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets, drones, and precision-guided missiles for this operation. Israel has termed the strike a “pre-emptive and preventive” action intended to deliver a significant blow to Iran’s nuclear and military potential.
Key Targets Hit:
- Natanz Uranium Enrichment Facility: Considered the heart of Iran’s nuclear programme, Natanz was reportedly hit hard. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed substantial damage in its preliminary report.
- Fordow Nuclear Research Centre: This underground facility, built beneath mountains, was also targeted. Israel claims the centre’s operational capabilities were severely impaired.
- S-300 Air Defence Systems: By destroying Iran’s air defence systems, Israeli aircraft managed to penetrate deep into Iranian airspace and strike intended targets.
- Ballistic Missile Manufacturing Units: Facilities in Khojir and other areas were hit to weaken Iran’s retaliatory capability.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) released a statement saying, “Our operation was precise and targeted. Preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains our top priority.”
Casualties
Iran’s military and scientific leadership has suffered significant losses. Israel claims to have eliminated several high-profile commanders and scientists, including:
- Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces.
- Hossein Salami, Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
- Amir Ali Hajizadeh, Head of the Iranian Aerospace Force.
- Dr. Mohammad Eslami, Head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation.
Iranian state media confirmed the deaths of Hossein Salami and two nuclear scientists—Fereydoon Abbasi and Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi. However, the total casualty count remains unclear. Images from Tehran show fireballs and explosions across multiple areas, raising concerns over collateral damage in civilian zones.
Statement from Israel
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a press conference in Jerusalem, stating, “Iran has stockpiled enough enriched uranium to build 15 nuclear bombs. Within a few months, it could have become a nuclear-armed state. We acted to protect our national existence.”
Netanyahu added that the operation targeted sites that Iran least expected to maximise strategic impact. “We will not stop until the Iranian nuclear threat is fully neutralised,” he declared.
Background of the Conflict
Israel and Iran have a long history of hostility, often engaging in proxy wars across the region. Iran supports militant groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, while Israel has consistently targeted Iranian positions in Syria and elsewhere.
On 1 October 2024, Iran launched 180 ballistic missiles at Israel, most of which were intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome and other air defence systems. The attack, backed by Iranian-aligned groups, was viewed by Israel as an open declaration of war, prompting detailed planning for a counter-offensive.
A recent IAEA report had revealed that Iran possessed uranium enriched to 60%, enough to produce six nuclear bombs—heightening Israel’s security concerns.
Iran’s Response
Iran has denounced the strikes as a “violation of international law” and vowed a firm retaliation. Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh stated, “Our Supreme National Security Council is preparing a response. If the nuclear deal collapses, we may target U.S. military bases in the region.”
According to Iranian media, more than 100 armed drones have already been launched toward Israel, and missile strikes may follow. Iran also claimed its S-300 systems intercepted several Israeli missiles, and the damage at Natanz and Fordow was “limited.”
The Role of the United States
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Israel had informed Washington ahead of the operation. “We only shared intelligence. No military assistance was provided,” he said.
President Donald Trump expressed concern over the targeting of oil and nuclear sites. “We do not want another war in the Middle East. Diplomacy is the only solution,” he stated.
Nonetheless, some international analysts believe the U.S. may have indirectly supported Israel. A major U.S. news outlet reported that American intelligence agencies were fully briefed on the operation.
Global Impact
Israel’s strike has pushed the Middle East to the brink of a full-scale war. Several critical global concerns have emerged:
- Iran’s Retaliation: Will Iran target Israel’s nuclear facilities in response?
- Possibility of a Regional War: Involvement of the U.S., Russia, or other major powers could escalate the conflict into a broader war.
- Oil Prices: Crude oil prices have surged to record highs post-strike, threatening global economic stability.
- Airspace Disruptions: Iran, Israel, and Iraq have closed their airspace. A major Indian airline had to reroute its Mumbai-London flight back to origin.
India’s Position
India has expressed serious concern over the escalation and urged for peace in the Middle East. The Ministry of External Affairs has issued an advisory for Indian citizens in Israel, urging them to stay alert and follow local authorities’ guidance. India has maintained a neutral stance and emphasised the need for a diplomatic resolution.
