Israel launched a massive air assault on Iran early Friday, targeting more than 100 sites across the country, including critical nuclear and military facilities. Among the dead are top Iranian officials, including Armed Forces Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri and Revolutionary Guards Commander Hossein Salami, as well as several senior nuclear scientists.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the operation aimed at crippling Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, specifically targeting the Natanz enrichment facility. “The operation was very successful and will continue as long as necessary,” Netanyahu stated in a video message.
Iran swiftly responded by launching over 100 drones toward Israel. The Israeli military said it was actively intercepting the drones, while Defence Minister Israel Katz warned of imminent retaliation, stating that Iran could strike “any minute.”
The strikes also hit civilian areas in Tehran, according to Iranian state media, killing women and children and prompting the closure of Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport. Iraq, fearing regional spillover, shut its airspace and suspended flights.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned the Israeli assault and vowed a “bitter and painful” revenge. Tehran also blamed the United States for being complicit, arguing that such a sophisticated attack couldn’t happen without Washington’s approval. However, US officials, including President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, denied involvement and warned Iran not to target US personnel or bases in the region.
The escalation rattled global markets, sending oil prices soaring by 12 percent. With nuclear talks between the US and Iran scheduled for Sunday in Oman, uncertainty looms over their viability. Trump indicated that the talks might still go ahead but admitted the attack “could blow it.”
The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed damage at Natanz and is monitoring radiation levels. Meanwhile, Iran vowed to accelerate its nuclear program, with plans to build a new enrichment center, further deepening global concerns over a potential wider conflict.
As the world watches closely, the risk of a broader war in the Middle East has reached an alarming new level.