Israel carried out a massive airstrike against Iran’s nuclear program, targeting over 100 strategic sites with 200 fighter jets and covert Mossad operations.

Surprise attack in multiple phases

In the early hours of June 13, 2025, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a surprise air operation called “Operation Rising Lion”, consisting of five coordinated waves of strikes. The offensive involved more than 200 fighter jets, armed drones, and acts of sabotage carried out inside Iranian territory.

The main targets were Iran’s nuclear facilities, military infrastructure, and key command centers. According to Israeli intelligence sources, the mission was meticulously planned for months and executed with surgical precision.

Nuclear facilities in the crosshairs

Key targets included the uranium enrichment plants in Natanz, Fordow, and Khondab, along with air defense systems in cities like Tabriz and Hamadan. Underground labs and centrifuge storage sites were also bombed.

Simultaneously, explosions rocked residential areas allegedly housing regime command centers and nuclear program leaders, according to Israeli sources.

High-ranking officials and scientists killed

Reports from Tehran indicate at least 78 people were killed and over 320 wounded in the assault. Among the dead were senior regime figures, including IRGC commander Hossein Salami, Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri, and General Gholam Ali Rashid.

At least six nuclear scientists were also reportedly killed, including Fereydoon Abbasi and Mohammad Mahdi Tehranchi, both linked to Iran’s atomic weapons development.

Mossad’s covert operation

Israeli sources confirmed Mossad played a central role in smuggling missiles and explosives into Iran weeks before the strike. Camouflaged drones and disinformation campaigns helped mislead Iranian intelligence and paved the way for the synchronized air attack.

This covert phase was crucial in ensuring the effectiveness of the airstrikes and preventing an immediate defensive response from Tehran.

Iran’s retaliation

The Iranian regime responded by launching over 100 drones and rockets toward Israeli territory. Most were intercepted by the Iron Dome defense system. No fatalities were reported in Israel, but air raid sirens were triggered in cities including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei called the operation “state terrorism” and vowed a “severe response.” He also warned that Iran may resort to ballistic missiles and proxy attacks through Hezbollah and the Houthis.

International reactions

The United States, which was informed of the operation in advance, stated it did not participate but reaffirmed Israel’s right to self-defense. At the same time, Washington urged restraint to avoid regional escalation. The UN and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) expressed concern over the attack on nuclear facilities and called for maximum containment.

Global markets reacted with volatility: oil prices surged, and European and Asian stock markets recorded sharp losses.

Regional scenario and future risks

This operation marks the largest Israeli offensive since the 2006 Lebanon War and could signal the start of a direct confrontation between Israel and Iran. Analysts warn of a potential broader conflict affecting Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen.

Israel has declared its readiness to continue the operation as long as necessary to “completely neutralize” the Iranian nuclear threat.

Sources:

WP Radio
WP Radio
OFFLINE LIVE
Scroll al inicio