In a dramatic escalation early Friday, Israel launched preemptive, precise air strikes on dozens of targets across Iran, including key military and nuclear sites. According to the Israel Defense Forces, this operation marked a warning shot over Iran's allegedly accelerating nuclear ambitions.
The Attack and Its Fallout
State media in Iran reported explosions in Tehran and the counties of Natanz, Khondab and Khorramabad. Among the dead were several senior commanders of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) – Chief Commander Hossein Salami, Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri and Gholam Ali Rashid of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters – as well as nuclear scientists Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi and Fereydoun Abbasi.
Warnings of Retaliation
Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei warned that Israel would face a bitter fate, while Armed Forces spokesman Abolfazl Shekarchi promised a harsh response from well-prepared military units. Hours later, the conflict intensified as the IDF reported more than 100 drones launched from Iranian territory towards Israel, which it said it was actively intercepting.
Israel on High Alert
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the strikes aimed at Iran's nuclear infrastructure, missile factories and other military capacities, and vowed to continue for as many days as it takes. IDF Chief Eyal Zamir described the campaign as a fight for Israel's existence, prompting the Home Front Command to suspend schools and public gatherings, and the Health Ministry to move hospitals to protected underground zones.
Global Reactions
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied any American involvement, calling the strikes a unilateral act by Israel in self-defense. U.S. President Donald Trump warned of a possible massive conflict if the situation spirals but said he hopes ongoing talks with Iran can prevent further escalation. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned any military expansion in the region and expressed concern over attacks on nuclear installations during diplomatic negotiations.
As the region braces for one of the most significant escalations in years, the world is watching whether diplomacy can emerge from the ashes of conflict or if a new chapter of confrontation is just beginning.
Reference(s):
Iran's supreme leader warns Israel of harsh punishment after strikes
cgtn.com
