In a dramatic escalation, Israel launched major airstrikes on Iran early Friday, targeting nuclear and missile facilities and killing some of Iran’s top military leaders. Iran quickly retaliated with a drone attack on Israel, raising fears of a full-blown war in the Middle East.
Israel Targets Iran’s Key Nuclear and Military Sites
According to Israeli defense sources, about 200 Israeli fighter jets carried out coordinated attacks on nearly 100 strategic targets across Iran, including:
- Natanz nuclear enrichment facility, where thick black smoke was seen rising.
- Radar systems and air defense missiles in western Iran.
- Ballistic missile bases near Tehran, hit by pre-positioned explosive drones planted by Mossad agents.
Two Israeli security officials revealed that precision weapons were smuggled into Iran in advance, and activated on ground to weaken Iranian defenses. Israel has not officially confirmed this.
Iran’s Top Generals and Scientists Killed
Among the casualties were three high-ranking Iranian generals:
- Gen. Mohammad Bagheri, top military commander
- Gen. Hossein Salami, head of the Revolutionary Guard
- Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh, leader of Iran’s ballistic missile program
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei confirmed their deaths and announced that other top officials and scientists were also killed. He condemned the strikes, calling for “severe punishment” against Israel.
Iran Responds with Drone Swarm Over Israel
In retaliation, Iran launched over 100 drones toward Israel. Both Iraq and Jordan confirmed the drones flew through their airspace. Israel claimed its air defenses intercepted most drones before they entered Israeli airspace, but it’s unclear if any managed to get through.
Global Reaction: Calls for Peace and Caution
- World leaders urged both sides to de-escalate the conflict immediately.
- U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iran on Truth Social:
“Make a deal before there’s nothing left… the next wave will be even worse.” - The U.S. government denied any involvement in the Israeli attacks but warned Iran not to retaliate against American forces or assets.
- Earlier this week, the U.S. had evacuated diplomats from Baghdad and allowed voluntary exits for military families across the region.
Netanyahu Defends Attack as Self-Defense
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the strikes, calling them a preemptive strike to stop Iran from building nuclear weapons.
“It could be a year or just months until Iran gets the bomb,” Netanyahu said.
“We will keep fighting until the threat is gone. This is about Israel’s survival.”
Iran Accuses Israel of Hitting Residential Areas
Khamenei claimed residential areas were targeted, saying:
“Israel’s bloody hands have struck our beloved country. Their crimes show their evil intent.”
At the same time, Iran began moving museum treasures to secure vaults, suggesting preparation for prolonged conflict.
Public Panic and Precautions in Both Countries
In Israel, people rushed to stock up on water and supplies, with WhatsApp groups sharing tips on how to prepare shelters.
In Iran, officials shut down museums and tightened security across major cities.
Hezbollah Condemns Attack, But Stays Out — For Now
Hezbollah, Iran’s key ally in Lebanon, condemned Israel’s airstrikes but did not threaten retaliation. The group has avoided major escalation since its own recent war with Israel ended under a U.S.-brokered ceasefire.
U.S. and IAEA Reactions
- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Israel acted alone, stressing the U.S. priority is to protect American troops.
- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed Israel hit Iran’s uranium enrichment facility in Natanz, and said they are monitoring radiation levels closely.
- On Thursday, the IAEA Board censured Iran for blocking inspectors — the first censure in 20 years.
Rising Oil Prices and Airport Closures
- Brent crude oil prices surged nearly 8% following the Israeli strike before slightly dropping back.
- Israel’s main airport was shut down as a precaution.
Conflict May Shape Future of Iran’s Regime
Netanyahu hinted that the operation could mark the beginning of the end for Iran’s theocracy:
“Our fight is not with the people of Iran, but with the regime that has oppressed them for 46 years. Their freedom is near.”
Tensions Had Been Building for Weeks
Experts had warned of a potential clash for weeks, as Iran’s nuclear activities accelerated and diplomatic efforts stalled.
With both nations now trading direct attacks, the threat of a broader regional war is more real than ever.
