Israel launched missile strikes targeting Iranian defense and nuclear facilities. In retaliation, Iran attacked Tel Aviv. 78 people were killed, and over 320 were injured.
Iran-Israel Conflict Update: Tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated significantly. On Friday, Israel launched 'Operation Rising Lion' against Iran, unleashing multiple missile strikes on the Ministry of Defense headquarters in Tehran and sites related to its nuclear program. The Israeli Defense Force (IDF) claims these attacks aimed to neutralize Iran's growing nuclear threat.
Direct Strike on Iran's Nuclear Project
According to the Israeli military, the operation targeted the SPND project—the Iranian department responsible for concealing and developing information related to the country's nuclear weapons program. Several other scientific and military installations were also targeted.
Iran's Missile Retaliation
Following the Israeli strikes, Iran retaliated. The Iranian military launched missiles at two major Israeli cities—Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. According to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, they targeted Israel's energy infrastructure and fuel supply units for fighter jets.
Israeli Cities Under Siege
Iran's counterattack has created a climate of fear in many parts of Israel. Life has come to a standstill in major cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Air raid sirens are continuously sounding, forcing people to take shelter in bunkers.
Heavy Destruction in Tehran, Oil Production Affected
Iran reports that the Shahran oil depot in Tehran suffered significant damage from the Israeli missile strikes. A nearby oil refinery was also targeted, resulting in a massive fire. This has temporarily halted oil production in the South Pars region.
78 Dead, Over 320 Injured
Iran's ambassador to the United Nations reported that 78 people have died and approximately 320 have been injured in the Israeli attacks. The casualties include several high-ranking Iranian military officers, nuclear scientists, and technical experts.
Israeli Prime Minister's Warning
Commenting on the operation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Iran is increasingly posing an existential threat to Israel. He asserted that remaining silent was no longer an option. He declared, “Operation Rising Lion will continue until this threat is completely eliminated.” Netanyahu also warned of harsher consequences for Iran in the coming days.
"What has happened is only the beginning" – Netanyahu
Benjamin Netanyahu explicitly stated that the current events are merely the beginning. He said, “We will target every site of the Ayatollah regime that poses a threat to Israel. In the coming time, Iran will face things it has never imagined.”
America's Role and Trump's Offer
Amidst this crisis, former US President Donald Trump advised Iran to return to the nuclear agreement. Trump suggested that Iran should negotiate a new nuclear deal to restore regional stability before the situation deteriorates further.