In a dramatic escalation, Israel has launched a sweeping aerial offensive against Iran, targeting critical sites tied to Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and top military brass.
Defence officials in Tel Aviv claim the strikes may have killed Hossein Salami, commander-in-chief of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), along with several senior nuclear scientists.
The Israeli military confirmed the deployment of over 200 fighter jets in a large-scale, coordinated assault, striking more than 100 strategic targets across Iran.
Effie Defrin, spokesperson for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), described the assault as “precise and synchronised”, confirming that attacks were ongoing and aimed at both military infrastructure and nuclear programme assets.
The retaliation was swift. Iran has launched more than 100 drones toward Israeli territory, triggering full activation of IDF aerial defence systems.
In a fiery message on X, the Iranian military warned, “This will not be a mere demonstration of will or technological capability. This time, our response will be lethal.”
The United States has distanced itself from the operation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated unequivocally, “There was no US involvement or assistance.”
CNN reports that the attack unfolded as then-President Donald Trump convened a cabinet-level meeting to discuss ongoing nuclear negotiations with Iran.
This marks a new and dangerous phase in regional tensions, with the potential for direct confrontation between two of the Middle East’s most powerful rivals.
