Israel Launches Massive Airstrikes on Iran

BREAKING NEWS:

Israel has launched large-scale airstrikes on Iran overnight, targeting critical nuclear facilities, including the Natanz nuclear site, as well as military bases and neighborhoods housing senior Iranian commanders. Eyewitnesses in Tehran report massive explosions and towering flames illuminating the night sky, signaling the intensity of the assault.

Israeli defense sources indicate a high likelihood that key Iranian military leaders, including Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Commander-in-Chief Major General Hossein Salami, and possibly Armed Forces Chief of Staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri, were killed in the initial wave of strikes. Iranian state media confirmed Salami’s death and reported the loss of top nuclear scientists, with the opening assault neutralizing critical figures within minutes. The strikes also targeted Iran’s ballistic missile infrastructure and other strategic military sites.

In response to the operation, codenamed “Am KeLavi” (Operation Rising Lion), Israel has shifted to wartime operations. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) closed the nation’s airspace, evacuating Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv and halting all flights. El Al Airlines has suspended operations, and Israel is relocating its aviation assets out of the country to safeguard them. The IDF has instructed citizens to remain near bomb shelters and prepare for extended stays, anticipating potential retaliatory attacks from Iran, which could involve thousands of ballistic missiles and drones. Intelligence reports also suggest possible heavy barrages from Iran-backed proxies in Lebanon and Yemen.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stated, “This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival.” The United States has clarified it was not involved in the strikes, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasizing that Israel acted unilaterally, and the U.S. priority remains protecting American forces in the region.

Iranian authorities have reported significant damage in Tehran and other targeted areas, including Natanz, a key uranium enrichment facility. Iran’s air defenses are on high alert, and flights from Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport have been suspended. Iranian state media warned of a “harsh response” to the Israeli attacks.

Global markets reacted swiftly, with oil prices surging 10 % and U.S. stock futures plunging. The world watches how Iran will retaliate and whether this marks the beginning of a wider war in the Middle East.

This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates.