Israel Launches Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Facilities Amid Rising Tensions

Israel's Military Action Against Iran

On Thursday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that they had initiated airstrikes targeting what they described as 'nuclear sites' in Iran, aiming to disrupt the country's nuclear ambitions.

According to the IDF, Israeli fighter jets successfully completed the initial phase of their operation, which involved attacks on numerous military installations, including those linked to nuclear activities.

Israeli officials expressed concerns that Iran is nearing the capability to develop a nuclear weapon, labeling the potential possession of such weapons by the Iranian regime as a significant threat to both Israel and global security.

The military emphasized its obligation to protect its citizens, stating that it had no alternative but to take defensive measures.

Brigadier General Effie Defrin, a spokesperson for the IDF, characterized the strikes as 'pre-emptive,' intended to thwart Iran's immediate nuclear weapon development efforts.

Reports from Tehran indicated that multiple explosions were heard around 3 AM local time, as confirmed by various news outlets.

The Islamic Republic News Agency reported casualties in several neighborhoods of Tehran following the strikes.

Additionally, it was reported that Hossein Salami, the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, was killed during the military action. The IRGC is a key component of Iran's military structure.

In response to the escalating situation, the Indian diplomatic mission in Tehran advised its citizens to remain alert, limit unnecessary travel, and follow safety protocols as outlined by local authorities.

The Indian embassy in Tel Aviv also urged its nationals to stay cautious and adhere to safety measures recommended by Israeli officials.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the operation, dubbed Rising Lion, had effectively targeted the core of Iran's nuclear enrichment and missile development programs.

Netanyahu confirmed that Israeli forces had attacked Iran's primary enrichment facility located in Natanz and indicated that operations would persist as needed.

The United States clarified that Israel's decision to conduct strikes was made independently, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasizing that Washington had no involvement in the military actions and warned Iran against targeting U.S. interests.

This story is ongoing and will be updated as more information becomes available.