In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, Israel has launched Operation Rising Lion, a military offensive targeting Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that the first phase of the operation struck critical sites across Tehran, reportedly eliminating top Iranian officials, including Revolutionary Guards Commander Hossein Salami and Army Chief Mohammad Bagheri, as well as senior nuclear scientists.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the operation was crucial for national survival, citing intelligence that Iran had amassed enough enriched uranium to potentially develop nine nuclear weapons. Key targets included the Natanz nuclear enrichment facility and Iran’s ballistic missile infrastructure. Netanyahu emphasized that the mission aimed to “strike at the heart” of Iran’s nuclear ambitions and prevent the country from becoming a nuclear-armed state.
Following the initial strikes, Israel closed its airspace and declared a state of emergency, anticipating retaliatory attacks from Iran. The operation triggered a nationwide alert in Iran, with explosions reported in Tehran, Kermanshah, and Lorestan. Emergency services have been deployed, and Iran’s military is now on high alert.
The Israeli government has sought international support, though U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the United States was not involved in the operation. Nevertheless, he assured that U.S. forces in the region are prepared for any fallout.
In a video address, Netanyahu hailed the strikes as a “highly successful opening move,” indicating that further military actions could follow. “With God’s help, we will accomplish much more,” he said, reaffirming Israel’s commitment to neutralizing threats from Iran’s nuclear and missile programs.
The situation remains volatile, with Iran vowing retaliation through missile and drone strikes, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.