Israel has launched a series of coordinated military strikes on Iranian territory, targeting key infrastructure sites believed to be linked to Tehran’s nuclear and missile programs. The operation, which began in the early hours of June 13, marks a dramatic escalation in tensions between the two regional powers and is being described by officials in Jerusalem as a “strategic preemptive strike.”
According to initial reports from both Western and regional media, multiple explosions were heard in and around Tehran, Isfahan, and other central provinces. Iranian air defense systems were reportedly activated in response, with footage circulating online showing interceptor missiles being launched into the night sky.
Israeli sources confirmed that the operation was carried out without direct U.S. involvement. In a statement, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said: “Israel is acting unilaterally. The United States is not part of this attack. Our responsibility is to protect American forces and assets in the region.”
The Israeli government has not publicly detailed the full scope of the operation, but sources indicate that the strikes focused on underground nuclear enrichment facilities, missile depots, and command centers associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Defense Minister Yoav Gallant held emergency consultations with security chiefs overnight and praised the military’s “precision and professionalism.”
In Tehran, authorities have not released an official casualty report but have confirmed that “hostile activity” occurred and that the country’s air defenses were “highly effective in repelling the attack.” Iranian officials vowed that the country “reserves the right to respond at the time and place of its choosing.”
President Donald Trump, speaking from the White House, urged calm but reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel’s security. “We are monitoring the situation closely. Our priority is de-escalation, but any attack on U.S. personnel or facilities will be met with decisive force,” he said.
The Israeli operation comes amid stalled negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program and growing concern in Jerusalem that Tehran is approaching weapons-grade uranium enrichment levels. Analysts warn that the current strike may trigger a wider regional conflict, especially if Iran or its proxy forces respond with retaliatory attacks.
As of now, air traffic across parts of Iran has been restricted, and several Gulf states have placed their military forces on heightened alert. The United Nations Security Council is expected to convene an emergency session within the next 24 hours.