In a bold escalation of regional tensions, Israel launched a large-scale military offensive named Operation Rising Lion early Friday, targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and military facilities. The strikes, which hit key sites including the primary uranium enrichment facility in Natanz, were aimed at neutralizing what Israel called an “existential threat.”
The Israeli Air Force struck targets deep inside Iranian territory, including multiple sites in Tehran, triggering massive explosions. Footage shared online showed flames consuming buildings, thick black smoke rising over the capital, and widespread damage across various neighborhoods. Several buildings were completely flattened.
Top Iranian Military and Nuclear Officials Killed in Op Rising Lion
According to Iranian state media, the Israeli strikes killed Hossein Salami, head of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, along with two senior nuclear scientists. This marks a significant blow to Iran’s military and nuclear leadership, and could deepen the already intense hostilities in the region.
Netanyahu Declares Determination to Eliminate Threat
In an official address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the operation and outlined the rationale behind the strikes.
“Moments ago, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival. This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat,” Netanyahu stated.
He accused Iran’s regime of actively seeking Israel’s destruction, citing its nuclear capabilities as a growing threat.
“For decades, the tyrants of Tehran have brazenly, openly called for Israel’s destruction,” Netanyahu said.
He added that Iran has stockpiled enough highly enriched uranium for nine nuclear weapons and is now closer than ever to weaponizing that material.
“If not stopped, Iran could produce a nuclear weapon in a very short time. It could be a year, it could be within a few months, or less than a year. This is a clear and present danger to Israel’s very survival,” the Israeli leader warned.
Global Concern Over Escalation
The dramatic escalation has raised fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East. World leaders are closely monitoring the situation as tension between the two regional powers threatens to spiral further.