By Kingsley 
Tehran/Jerusalem – June 13, 2025
In a dramatic escalation of Middle East tensions, Israel launched a massive military operation against Iran on Friday, targeting nuclear facilities, missile factories, and high-ranking military leaders. The assault, dubbed “Operation Rising Lion,” was described by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a decisive effort to eliminate the Iranian nuclear threat.
In response, Iran fired approximately 100 drones at Israeli territory. Explosions were reported across Iran, including at the critical Natanz uranium enrichment site. Israel’s military confirmed the assassination of top Iranian commanders, including the chief of staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, the head of the Revolutionary Guards, and the commander of Iran’s Emergency Command.
Iran’s state media confirmed that Revolutionary Guards commander Hossein Salami was among the dead. Civilian casualties were also reported, with children killed in residential strikes in Tehran.
Airlines suspended operations over Israel, Iran, Iraq, and Jordan, and both Iran and Israel closed their airspace. Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport remains shut.
The U.S. stated it had no role in the Israeli operation, although reports suggest coordination between Israeli and U.S. officials. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump reiterated that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons and expressed hope for a return to diplomatic talks.
The Israeli military warned Iran could build up to 15 nuclear bombs within days without intervention. Mossad is also reported to have conducted covert sabotage inside Iran, targeting missile and air defense systems.
Despite the ongoing conflict, scheduled nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran in Oman on Sunday are set to proceed.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged both sides to show “maximum restraint,” warning of catastrophic consequences for the region.