Israel Launches ‘Rising Lion’ Operation, Strikes Iranian Nuclear Sites

On Friday, Israel confirmed it had launched a series of pre-emptive strikes on Iranian nuclear targets, stating the move was necessary to prevent Tehran from developing atomic weapons. The operation, code-named “Rising Lion,” marks a dramatic escalation in tensions between the two regional powers.

Explosions Reported in Tehran and Natanz

Iran’s state television reported multiple explosions in Tehran, prompting the activation of the country’s air defense systems. Additional blasts were heard near Iran’s main uranium enrichment facility in Natanz, a critical site in the country’s nuclear infrastructure.

Israel Targets Scientists, Missile Sites, and Commanders

According to Israeli officials, the strikes targeted not only nuclear infrastructure but also key individuals and facilities involved in Iran’s nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs. This includes:

• Iranian scientists allegedly working on nuclear weapons development

• Missile production factories

• The Natanz uranium enrichment facility

• Senior Iranian military commanders

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared a “special situation” within Israel, preparing the country for potential retaliatory strikes involving missiles and drones. He further stated that the operation could continue over several days.

Netanyahu: ‘A Decisive Moment in Israel’s History’

In a televised statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said:

“We are at a decisive moment in Israel’s history.”

He emphasized that the offensive was carried out to ensure the security and future of the Israeli people.

Iran Holds High-Level Security Meeting

As tensions escalated, Iran’s leadership convened an emergency national security meeting, according to Reuters. While Iran has acknowledged the strikes, the extent of the damage and casualties remains unclear.

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A senior Israeli military official told Reuters that Israel was targeting “dozens” of military and nuclear facilities, and claimed that Iran already possesses enough enriched uranium to build 15 nuclear bombs within days.

U.S. Distances Itself from Israeli Strikes

In an official statement, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the United States was not involved in Israel’s strikes on Iran. He stated:

“Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran, and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region.”

Rubio also issued a stern warning to Tehran:

“Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel.”

Meanwhile, CNN reported that President Donald Trump had called an emergency cabinet meeting to assess the situation.

Diplomatic Efforts in Jeopardy

According to Reuters, U.S. and Iranian officials were scheduled to hold a sixth round of nuclear negotiations in Oman on Sunday, facilitated by Omani mediators. However, the latest Israeli offensive is likely to derail or significantly complicate these talks.

Just a day before the strikes, President Trump had stated:

“An Israeli strike on Iran could very well happen,”
while expressing hope for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

U.S. intelligence had reportedly detected Israeli preparations for an imminent strike on Iranian nuclear facilities, but Washington had opted to stay out of the operation, according to anonymous officials.

Conclusion

The Israeli operation “Rising Lion” signals a major turning point in Middle Eastern geopolitics. With Israel claiming it acted to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, and the U.S. distancing itself from the offensive, the region now faces the imminent threat of retaliation and broader conflict. All eyes are now on Tehran’s response, and whether diplomatic avenues—such as the upcoming Oman talks—can survive this dangerous escalation.

Reference

Explosions Rock Tehran As Israel Launches ‘Pre-Emptive’ Strikes On Iranian Nuclear Sites