Israel launched a large-scale preemptive strike against Iran in the early hours of June 13, targeting nuclear and military infrastructure in what officials called an effort to prevent an imminent threat.
The strikes, part of “Operation Rising Lion,” hit sites near Natanz, Fordo, and Tehran, including uranium enrichment facilities and military command centers. Israel Defense Forces described the attacks as “precise” and based on “high-level intelligence.” Explosions were also reported near Tehran’s main airport.
The United States has denied involvement in Israel’s preemptive airstrikes on Iran. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated that Israel acted independently, emphasizing that the U.S. was not involved in the operation.
Iran responded by firing hundreds of drones and missiles toward Israel. Sirens sounded in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, with not all missiles intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome defense system. Iran’s military vowed “severe retaliation” if further attacks occur.
The strikes mark a dramatic shift in Middle East tensions and raise fears of a broader conflict.