#IsraelIranConflict

Israel launched a series of large-scale airstrikes against Iran in the early hours of Friday, June 13, 2025, targeting nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories, and military commanders. The operation, dubbed "Rising Lion" by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), was described as a "preventive strike" following claims that Iran was making significant advances in building a nuclear weapon. Targets included the main nuclear enrichment center in Natanz, the headquarters of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard in Tehran, and several radar and air defense installations. Iranian state media reported the deaths of important military figures, such as Hossein Salami, head of the Revolutionary Guard, as well as nuclear scientists and civilians, including children. Iran reported at least three deaths in attacks in the East Azerbaijan province and additional explosions in several cities. Iran's Response: In retaliation, Iran launched about 100 drones against Israel on the morning of Friday, June 13. Israeli media reported that all drones were intercepted. Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, promised "severe punishment" to Israel, labeling the attacks as a "declaration of war." Iranian Defense Minister Gen. Aziz Nasirzadeh warned that the U.S. would suffer "great losses" in the event of conflict, and Iran threatened to strike American targets in the region if its nuclear facilities were hit.