Israel strikes Iran nuclear sites, kills IRGC chief in major escalation

Israel Launches Major Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear and Military Sites

Israel carried out large-scale airstrikes on Iran early Friday, targeting nuclear facilities, missile production sites, and senior military commanders in what it described as a preemptive operation to halt Tehran’s nuclear weapons program. The attack, codenamed Operation Rising Lion, marks one of the most significant escalations in the long-standing shadow war between the two nations.

Iranian state media confirmed the death of Major General Hossein Salami, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), in the strikes. Several explosions were reported in Tehran, including at the IRGC headquarters and residential areas housing top officials. Nuclear scientists Fereydoun Abbasi and Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi were also killed.

Israel’s military stated it struck dozens of targets, including the Natanz uranium enrichment facility—a critical site for Iran’s nuclear program. The IDF warned that Iran had enough enriched uranium to produce 15 nuclear bombs within days, justifying the operation as necessary for Israel’s survival.

Iran Vows Retaliation

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed severe punishment, calling the attack a “crime” and warning that Israel would face a “bitter fate.” The IRGC pledged revenge, raising fears of immediate missile or drone strikes against Israel. Tehran closed its airspace and placed air defenses on high alert.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the operation would continue “for as many days as it takes” to neutralize the Iranian threat. The country has mobilized tens of thousands of troops and issued emergency protocols, including shelter directives for civilians.

The United States denied involvement, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating Israel acted unilaterally in self-defense. President Donald Trump convened the National Security Council but emphasized Washington’s priority was protecting American forces in the region. The UN urged restraint, while Oman—set to host US-Iran nuclear talks—condemned Israel’s “dangerous escalation.”

Global markets reacted sharply, with oil prices surging over 7% and stocks falling amid fears of a wider conflict. Analysts warn the strikes could derail diplomatic efforts to curb Iran’s nuclear program, which the IAEA recently found non-compliant for the first time in 20 years.

The attack follows months of heightened tensions, including US troop withdrawals from the Middle East and Iranian threats to target American bases. With both sides signaling further action, the region braces for potential retaliation and prolonged instability.