| Entity | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Israel | Launched coordinated airstrikes on Iran | Targeted nuclear enrichment sites (e.g., Natanz), radar systems, and military leadership |
| Iran | Retaliated with drone attacks | Sent over 100 drones toward Israel after senior generals were killed |
| Casualties | Iranian leadership | Gen. Mohammad Bagheri, Gen. Hossein Salami, and Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh killed |
| International | U.S. and UN responses | U.S. denied involvement, urged caution; IAEA monitored nuclear sites for radiation |
| Public Impact | Israeli civilians prepare | Stockpiling supplies, shelter readiness amid fears of full-scale war |
| Political Context | Netanyahu’s dual-front strategy | Strike coincides with Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza |
On early Friday morning, Israel launched a large-scale air assault on Iranian territory, striking nuclear facilities, military bases, and killing three of Iran’s most powerful generals. According to Israeli authorities, the operation aimed to halt Iran’s growing nuclear threat, which they labeled as “imminent and existential.”
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed deploying nearly 200 aircraft to hit around 100 targets across Iran, including Natanz, Iran’s key nuclear enrichment site. Simultaneously, Mossad reportedly deployed explosive drones inside Iran ahead of the attack, with advanced weaponry smuggled in by land.
Which Iranian Leaders Were Killed in the Strike?
Three top Iranian commanders were confirmed dead:
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Gen. Mohammad Bagheri – Head of Iran’s Armed Forces
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Gen. Hossein Salami – Leader of the Revolutionary Guard
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Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh – Chief of the IRGC’s ballistic missile program
Their deaths represent a devastating loss for Iran’s defense infrastructure, and Ayatollah Ali Khamenei acknowledged the severity, declaring the country would pursue “severe punishment.”
How Did Iran Respond to Israel’s Offensive?
Shortly after the strikes, Iran launched over 100 drones toward Israeli airspace in retaliation. Israel claimed these were intercepted before reaching their destination, but no immediate confirmation was provided regarding successful hits.
Iran also accused Israel of targeting residential areas, heightening concerns of civilian casualties. Supreme Leader Khamenei condemned the attack as a “malicious crime,” calling on the international community to recognize Israel’s aggression.
Was the United States Involved in the Attack?
U.S. officials denied any participation in the Israeli offensive. According to American sources, Israel had privately informed the Trump administration about potential strikes in advance. However, the U.S. emphasized that it had no operational role, urging restraint on all sides.
As a precaution, the U.S. withdrew some diplomatic staff from Iraq and issued shelter-in-place orders for embassy personnel in Jerusalem.
What Are the Broader Geopolitical Implications?
The assault marks Israel’s most extensive strike inside Iran since their adversarial relationship began. It underscores a dangerous escalation in Middle East hostilities, with fears that the conflict could spill over into regional war.
Observers noted that Israel’s opposition parties—usually critical of Prime Minister Netanyahu—have temporarily united in support of the strike. Yair Lapid, opposition leader, endorsed the attack as a necessary step for national security.
However, critics argue the timing may also serve to divert attention from Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, which has lasted over 20 months and caused significant domestic and international backlash.
What Is the International Reaction to the Iran-Israel Conflict?
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U.N. Atomic Watchdog (IAEA): Confirmed a strike on Natanz and began monitoring for radiation risks
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Former President Donald Trump: Urged Iran to negotiate a nuclear deal to avoid further bloodshed, warning of more “brutal” attacks
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Secretary of State Marco Rubio: Reiterated U.S. neutrality while prioritizing American military personnel’s safety
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Hezbollah: Issued a statement of condemnation but refrained from direct military threats
What Happens Next? Will This Lead to Full-Scale War?
While Israel described the strike as only “the beginning,” Iran’s immediate drone response suggests a tit-for-tat escalation. Netanyahu emphasized that the target was not the Iranian people, but their “brutal dictatorship.”
Public sentiment in Israel remains on edge, with people rushing to stock up on essentials and prepare bomb shelters. Whether this exchange marks the onset of a broader conflict or a temporary flare-up remains uncertain.
On Twitter (X), @KSAmofaEN said “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia strongly condemns and denounces the blatant Israeli aggressions against the brotherly Iran, which undermine its sovereignty and constitute a clear violation of international laws and norms”.#IranUnderAttack pic.twitter.com/D2E7i4b6bu
— Pakistan Narrative (@PaksNarrative) June 13, 2025
Conclusion
This unprecedented escalation between Israel and Iran marks a turning point in regional tensions, with direct military engagement likely to disrupt diplomatic efforts and regional stability. While both sides claim self-defense, the international community watches closely for signs of restraint—or further retaliation.
FAQs
Q: Is this the first time Israel has attacked Iran directly?
A: While Israel has conducted covert operations and cyberattacks in the past, this marks one of the most open and large-scale direct strikes in recent history.
Q: Why did Israel target Natanz?
A: Natanz is Iran’s primary uranium enrichment site, key to its controversial nuclear program.
Q: How is the U.S. involved?
A: The U.S. denied direct involvement, though it was reportedly warned in advance. Washington has urged de-escalation.
Q: What role does Hezbollah play?
A: So far, Hezbollah has condemned the strike but has not engaged militarily, perhaps to avoid reigniting conflict with Israel.
Q: Could this lead to World War III?
A: While the situation is grave, international diplomatic channels remain open. A regional war is possible, but global escalation depends on further actions.
