Israel Launches Massive Airstrike on Tehran Nuclear Facilities
In a significant escalation of regional tensions, Israel unleashed a large-scale air raid targeting critical nuclear infrastructure in Tehran. Approximately 50 fighter jets carried out overnight operations striking over 80 key locations tied to Iran’s nuclear program, according to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).
The mission was reportedly coordinated under the guidance of Israel's military intelligence, with the air force focusing on degrading Iran’s weapons development capabilities. Among the targeted sites were the Iranian Ministry of Defense headquarters and the Sepand facility, which houses important nuclear archives, as confirmed by the military statement. Videos released by Israel captured moments from the operation, showing multiple explosions lighting up the Tehran skyline.
Retaliation and Rising Casualties
Following the airstrikes, plumes of smoke rose over Tehran as fires broke out near two fuel depots. Additionally, Iran reported damage to a defense ministry-linked site in Isfahan. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards responded by attacking locations utilized by Israeli aircraft for mid-air refueling and issued warnings of broader and more intense reprisals if the assaults continue.
The human cost is mounting on both sides. Iranian officials reported 78 fatalities and over 320 injured from the initial Israeli strikes, including the deaths of prominent commanders and nuclear scientists. Meanwhile, Israel has suffered at least 13 deaths and nearly 180 wounded since the hostilities began Friday. Missile attacks in Bat Yam, near Tel Aviv, claimed six lives—including two children—and northern Tamra experienced similar tragic losses.
Leadership and Future Prospects
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held the United States partly responsible, accusing it of backing Israel and labeling its involvement as complicity in aggression. On the Israeli side, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that their campaign was just beginning, stating, "This is nothing compared to what they will feel under the sway of our forces in the coming days." Both nations are bracing for further confrontations as diplomatic efforts remain elusive.
