Israel launched a series of preemptive airstrikes on Iran early Friday, targeting nuclear research facilities and senior military figures in what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called “Operation Rising Lion.” The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said dozens of warplanes hit nuclear and military sites across Iran, including in Tehran and Natanz.
The IDF claimed the strikes were based on “high-quality intelligence” and were intended to eliminate threats to Israel’s survival. Iranian state TV confirmed the death of Hossein Salami, head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, in the initial wave.
Shortly after, Iran retaliated by launching more than 100 drones toward Israeli territory, according to CNN. “We’re expecting difficult hours,” said IDF spokesperson Effie Defrin.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed a “harsh response,” and explosions were reported across Tehran and Natanz.
While the U.S. was not involved in the operation, Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed Israel acted unilaterally. President Donald Trump is convening a National Security Council meeting, and U.S. personnel in Israel have been ordered to shelter in place.
The strikes come amid faltering U.S.-Iran nuclear talks and raise fears of further regional escalation.
Source(s)
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CBS News – MBFC Rating
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