Iran's nuclear facilities hit by Israeli airstrikes
Israel has launched a massive attack on Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories, and military commanders.
The strikes, which involved over 200 fighter jets, have killed several top Iranian military officials, including the chief of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, Hossein Salami, and the country’s military chief of staff, Gen. Mohammad Bagheri.
According to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the operation aims to prevent Iran from building an atomic weapon.
“We are at a decisive moment in Israel’s history,” Netanyahu said in a recorded video message.
“Moments ago Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival.
This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat.”
*Iranian retaliation*
In response to the strikes, Iran launched around 100 drones towards Israeli territory, which Israel is working to intercept.
Israeli military spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin confirmed the intercepts, while Iranian media reported explosions at the country’s main uranium enrichment facility at Natanz.
The strikes have resulted in significant casualties, including several children killed in a residential area of Tehran.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned Israel of a “bitter and painful” fate, stating that there would be no limits to Iran’s response.
Meanwhile, the US has distanced itself from the operation, despite being reportedly aware of Israel’s plans beforehand.
The conflict has led to a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations, with potential far-reaching consequences.
