Tensions in the Middle East have reached a critical level after Israel launched a major military offensive on Iranian soil, killing top commanders of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and targeting key nuclear and missile facilities. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said the strikes were part of “Operation Rising Lion“, an effort to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the strikes, stating,
“Moments ago, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival. This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat.”
The name of the operation is derived from a verse in the Book of Numbers in the Bible. A photo released by Netanyahu’s office showed him placing a handwritten note into Jerusalem’s Western Wall, quoting the scripture:
“Behold, the people shall rise up as a great lion…” (Numbers 23:24)
What Was Targeted?
The airstrikes reportedly hit Iran’s Natanz nuclear enrichment site, ballistic missile production plants, and military command centers, killing several high-ranking Iranian military officials including:
- Gen. Hossein Salami, chief of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards
- Gen. Mohammad Bagheri, chief of staff of Iran’s armed forces
- Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh, head of the Revolutionary Guard’s missile program
Iran’s Reaction: “Severe Punishment Will Follow”
Iran responded angrily, launching over 100 drones toward Jerusalem.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned:
“Jerusalem will face severe punishment… Israel has opened its wicked and blood-stained hand to commit a crime against our beloved country.”
President Masoud Pezeshkian called Israel’s actions “foolish” and vowed a “legitimate and powerful response.” Iran’s FARS news agency also quoted sources promising retaliation “soon.”
In the wake of the attack, Khamenei swiftly appointed Gen. Abdolrahim Mousavi as the new chief of staff and Mohammad Pakpour as head of the Revolutionary Guards.
Airspace Shut, Flights Canceled
Airspace over Israel, Iran, Iraq, and Jordan was closed after the attack. Multiple international flights were cancelled. Israeli sources told the AP that Mossad smuggled drones and weaponry into Iran ahead of the attack, though no official confirmation has followed.
India Issues Advisory
India’s Ministry of External Affairs urged both nations to avoid escalatory steps, while advising Indian nationals in both countries to remain vigilant.
Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said,
“India has close and friendly relations with both nations. We hope for restraint and de-escalation.”
Global Reactions
The United States clarified it was not involved in the Israeli attack. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Israel acted unilaterally.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stated that while parts of the Natanz facility were damaged, no radioactive contamination was detected. It confirmed that Fordo enrichment site remains unaffected.
IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi called for “maximum restraint” and expressed readiness to visit Iran. Similar appeals for de-escalation came from Japan, China, Australia, and the UK.
Economic Fallout: Oil Prices Surge
The military exchange has had a global economic impact. Crude oil prices surged:
- US crude rose by $4.97 to $72.91 per barrel
- Brent crude jumped $4.78 to $74.15 per barrel
Analysts expect further volatility depending on whether Iranian oil exports are affected.
Ongoing Threats
Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning:
“The military will continue its activities to thwart the Iranian nuclear program and remove threats on the State of Israel.”
A senior Israeli official later added that the offensive may “keep going for days” depending on how Iran responds.