Massive Aerial Assault Targets Nuclear Facilities, Military Leadership; Iran Retaliates with Drone Strikes as Global Leaders Urge De-Escalation
In a dramatic escalation of long-simmering tensions, Israel launched a large-scale military operation against Iran on June 13, 2025, striking nuclear facilities, military bases, and leadership figures in what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called a “preemptive action to dismantle Tehran’s existential threat to the region.”
Unprecedented Strikes
Dubbed Operation Rising Lion, the attack involved over 200 Israeli fighter jets targeting more than 100 sites across Iran, including the heavily fortified uranium enrichment facility at Natanz, ballistic missile production centers, and Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) headquarters near Tehran. Covert Mossad operatives reportedly sabotaged air defenses and missile infrastructure ahead of the strikes.
The operation resulted in the deaths of high-ranking Iranian military officials, including IRGC Commander General Hossein Salami and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri. At least six nuclear scientists—among them Fereydoun Abbasi, former head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization—were also killed. Iranian state media confirmed civilian casualties in Tehran and other cities, accusing Israel of hitting residential areas.
Iran’s Retaliation and Vows of Revenge
Within hours, Iran launched over 100 drones toward Israel, most of which were intercepted by the IDF. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed “severe punishment,” while the Iranian government invoked international law to justify its right to counterattack. Officials also hinted at U.S. involvement, citing intelligence-sharing with Israel—a claim Washington denied.
“The United States was not involved in this operation, though we support Israel’s right to defend itself,” said Secretary of State Marco Rubio. President Donald Trump, while acknowledging prior awareness of the strikes, called for renewed nuclear negotiations but warned Iran against further weaponization efforts.
Global Alarm and Regional Fallout
The attack sent shockwaves across the Middle East and beyond:
- Turkey, Hamas, and the Taliban condemned Israel’s actions, with Hezbollah reportedly mobilizing forces in Lebanon.
- The UN Security Council convened an emergency session amid calls for restraint from the UK, EU, and Gulf states.
- Qatar Airways suspended flights to Iran and Iraq, while Israel closed its airspace and declared a state of emergency.
Uncertain Aftermath
The long-term impact on Iran’s nuclear program remains unclear. While the IAEA confirmed no radiation leaks or damage at the Fordow facility, analysts warn that underground sites like Natanz may have sustained significant harm. Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization insisted operations were unaffected, but the loss of top scientists and commanders could hinder recovery.
With both nations on high alert and proxy forces poised for escalation, the world braces for further confrontation. “This is not the end,” warned a senior Iranian official. “The Zionists will regret their arrogance.”
Key Questions Ahead:
- Will Iran pursue asymmetric retaliation through proxies like Hezbollah or direct strikes?
- Can diplomatic channels prevent a full-scale regional war?
- How will the U.S. and allies navigate the crisis amid election-year pressures?
As smoke clears over Natanz, one reality is certain: the Middle East has entered its most volatile phase in decades.
