Late Thursday, Israel initiated airstrikes within Iran, marking its most recent attempt to dismantle Tehran’s nuclear program. The operation, dubbed “Rising Lion,” was deemed necessary by Israeli military leaders. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the operation aimed to neutralize Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, ballistic missile factories, and military, in response to what he described as a threat to Israel’s existence.
The extent of the damage caused by the airstrikes remains uncertain. However, reports suggest that a high-ranking general and several nuclear scientists were among the casualties as explosions echoed across Tehran. Netanyahu, in a YouTube address, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the attacks would persist for as long as necessary to neutralize the threat.
Netanyahu further stressed the importance of acting now to prevent future generations from facing these threats. He cited historical lessons, stating that when an enemy declares an intention to destroy you, it is crucial to believe them and take necessary action to prevent them from developing the capabilities to do so.
A recent report confirmed that Iran had enriched enough uranium to build nuclear bombs within days, which was a significant factor in the decision to launch the airstrikes. Among the casualties were Gen. Hossein Salami, the head of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, and Mohammad Bagheri, the chief of the country’s military, along with two nuclear scientists, according to Iran’s state media.
The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, clarified that the US was not involved in the strike. He stated that Israel had advised the US that the action was necessary for its self-defense. He also emphasized that the US’s top priority was protecting American forces in the region.
In response to the airstrikes, the US Embassy in Israel directed all US government employees and their family members to shelter in place until further notice. Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir stated that Israel had reached a “point of no return,” emphasizing the necessity of the action.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threatened retaliation, promising “severe punishment” for Israel. Meanwhile, at the White House, President Trump acknowledged the possibility of an Israeli airstrike but did not confirm its imminence.