Live updates on the Israel-Iran strike: 'Gates of hell' will open on Israel, according to the new head of the Revolutionary Guards.
Israel launched one of its biggest military campaigns against the Islamic Republic since its war with Iraq in the 1980s early Friday, attacking the Iranian capital.
Six nuclear experts and many senior Iranian military officers were killed in the strikes.
The attack occurs as tensions between the two Middle Eastern enemies are rising, mostly due to worries about Iran's rapidly developing nuclear program. Iran swiftly worsened the situation by firing a large number of drones in retaliation against Israel, and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threatened "severe punishment."
1. What Happened?
- Israel launched approximately 200 fighter jets and drones into Iranian airspace, striking over 100 military and nuclear sites including Natanz, Isfahan, and Tehran hot spots .
- The strikes reportedly killed key figures: IRGC commander Hossein Salami, Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri, and prominent nuclear scientists including Amir Ali Hajizadeh.
- Iran responded almost immediately with a drone counterattack—over 100 drones were launched toward Israel, most intercepted by Israeli defenses.
2. Israel’s Justification & Potential Continuation of Strikes
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the operation as crucial self-defense, aimed at stopping Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He stated that strikes could continue "as long as necessary" to neutralize this threat.
3. Regional & Global Reactions
- United States: President Donald Trump confirmed the U.S. was informed but not directly involved. He warned Iran against targeting American interests and encouraged a diplomatic resolution.
- United Nations & IAEA: UN Secretary-General António Guterres and IAEA head Rafael Grossi urged restraint, highlighting the severe consequences of striking nuclear sites.
- Allied Nations: NATO, EU countries (UK, France, Germany), Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Iraq, Oman, Turkey, Indonesia, Pakistan, China, and Russia condemned the attacks and warned against escalation.
4. Economic Fallout
Financial markets reacted swiftly:
- Oil prices surged over 7%, reaching multi-month highs—Brent crude rose to about $74.30 a barrel.
- Global stock markets fell, with safe-haven assets like gold and the US dollar gaining traction.