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

Loud explosions rocked Tehran early Friday as Israel launched a major military operation against Iran.

The strikes targeted Iran’s nuclear and military facilities.

Israeli Army Radio reported the operation focused on Iran’s nuclear program. Long-range missile capabilities were also hit. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the attacks in a YouTube address.

He said Israel struck “the heart of Iran’s nuclear weaponization program.” Netanyahu called the operation necessary for Israel’s security. He vowed to continue until the threat is removed.

Iranian state media reported high-ranking casualties. IRGC Commander Gen. Hossein Salami was killed. Gen. Gholam-Ali Rashid also died in the strikes.

Two nuclear scientists were among the dead. Mohammad Tehranchi and Fereydoon Abbasi were killed. Abbasi had survived a 2010 assassination attempt.

At least 50 people were wounded in the attacks. Tasnim news agency said 35 were women and children.

Key military and nuclear sites were hit. The Parchin military complex near Tehran was struck. The Natanz uranium enrichment facility was also targeted.

Footage showed smoke rising from Natanz. The IAEA confirmed the site was attacked.

Explosions were reported in several other cities. Qom, Tabriz, and Kermanshah were among them. Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Airport suspended flights.

The U.S. denied involvement in the operation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Israel acted alone. He called it an act of self-defense.

President Donald Trump stressed diplomacy but warned Iran. He said Iran must not target U.S. interests.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned the strikes. He called them a “crime” and promised retaliation. Khamenei accused Israel of attacking civilians.

The conflict between Israel and Iran has entered a dangerous new phase. Tensions are now at their highest level in years.