Israel has launched a sweeping and unprecedented military offensive against Iran, targeting a wide range of military and nuclear sites in what Israeli authorities have described as a “preemptive strike” aimed at neutralizing a growing threat to national security.
The operation, codenamed “Nation of Lions,” was confirmed by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who declared a special state of emergency across Israel in anticipation of possible retaliation.
Strategic Targets Hit Across Iran
According to Israeli military sources, dozens of airstrikes were carried out by the Israeli Air Force (IAF), striking Iranian command centers, missile facilities, and alleged nuclear infrastructure spread across various provinces, including around the capital, Tehran. Although Israel did not provide detailed target lists, reports from Iranian state media indicated multiple explosions and missile interceptions in key regions, fueling speculation that nuclear-related sites may have been among the targets.
Minister Katz described the strikes as necessary to “roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s survival”, adding that Israel acted on “credible intelligence” indicating an imminent Iranian-led offensive.
“A Defining Moment for Israel”
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Katz wrote:
“Since the last meeting with the General Staff Forum before the attack on Iran, I told the Chief of Staff and the members of the forum that this is a defining moment in the history of the State of Israel and the history of the Jewish people.
The IDF launched an operation against the head of the Iranian octopus to thwart its capabilities and remove the threat of destruction from the State of Israel.
I and all citizens of Israel trust the IDF and pray for its success. We will win.”
Rising Fears of Retaliation
The Israeli government has warned of an imminent retaliatory missile and drone attack by Iran and its regional proxies. Security has been intensified across Israeli cities, with air defense systems on high alert and bomb shelters prepared for civilian use.
Defense analysts believe Iranian retaliation could come not only directly from Iran but also via allied militant groups such as Hezbollah in Lebanon or militia groups in Iraq and Syria. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has not yet issued a formal response, but Iranian media described the strikes as “acts of war” and “clear violations of international law.”
Tensions Rooted in Failed Diplomacy
This military escalation follows the breakdown of nuclear negotiations between Iran and world powers, including the United States, over Tehran’s controversial uranium enrichment program. While Iran insists its nuclear development is purely civilian, Western nations and Israel have long accused Tehran of seeking nuclear weapons capabilities.
Just weeks before the strike, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) passed a resolution criticizing Iran’s lack of transparency and cooperation. In response, Iran limited access to international inspectors, deepening suspicions of covert nuclear activity.
Adding fuel to the crisis, former U.S. President Donald Trump recently accused Iran of “slow-walking” negotiations, calling for the “complete dismantling” of its nuclear infrastructure. Although the Biden administration (or successor) has taken a more diplomatic approach, the U.S. has increasingly hardened its stance.
U.S. Distances Itself from Israeli Strike
In a carefully worded statement, U.S. officials confirmed they were not involved in the Israeli operation and had neither facilitated nor approved the airstrikes. The United States has also ordered the evacuation of nonessential personnel from embassies in Iraq, Lebanon, and the Gulf States — all potential flashpoints in the event of wider conflict.
Washington’s decision to distance itself is widely seen as an attempt to minimize the risk of Iranian retaliation against U.S. assets or military personnel stationed across the Middle East.
Regional and Global Reactions
The international community has reacted with alarm. The United Nations Secretary-General called for “immediate de-escalation and restraint,” while European Union officials urged both sides to return to diplomacy to prevent a full-scale regional war. Russia and China have condemned the Israeli strikes and called for a UN Security Council emergency session.
What’s Next?
With tensions at a boiling point, the region stands on the brink of a broader conflict. Military analysts say the situation could unfold into a prolonged proxy war, drawing in neighboring countries and non-state actors, particularly if Iran chooses a multi-front retaliation.
For now, the world watches anxiously as Israel braces for impact and Iran weighs its next move.
