Dr.Thomas (Special Correspondent)
In a bold and decisive operation, Israel launched a series of precision airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities and military infrastructure, aiming to neutralize what Israeli officials describe as an imminent existential threat to the nation and the broader region.
The 12-day campaign, which began on June 13, 2025, has been hailed by Israeli leadership as a critical step in preventing Iran from achieving nuclear weapon capabilities, a move that could destabilize global security.
A Necessary Response to a Growing Threat:
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, addressing the nation, emphasized that the operation was not a choice but a necessity.
“Iran’s regime has made its intentions clear, moving aggressively toward nuclear weapons while targeting Israeli civilians. We acted to protect our people and stop a threat the world cannot afford to ignore,” he stated.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that the strikes focused on key nuclear sites, including the heavily fortified Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant and the Natanz facility, as well as missile production sites and air defense systems.
The operation, dubbed “Rising Lion,” was meticulously planned following intelligence reports indicating Iran’s accelerated efforts to enrich uranium to near-bomb-grade levels.
Israeli reconnaissance had penetrated critical Iranian sites, including the headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), enabling precise targeting of military commanders and nuclear scientists.
According to a senior Israeli military official, the strikes eliminated over 30 senior security officials and 11 nuclear scientists, significantly disrupting Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Strategic Success Amid Retaliation:
The IDF’s air superiority was on full display, with F-15 and F-35 fighter jets, supported by Boeing 707 refueling planes, executing over 900 strikes across Iran.
While Iran retaliated with ballistic missile attacks, causing damage to 2,305 homes in Israel and displacing over 13,000 civilians, the IDF’s Home Front Command responded swiftly, with 51 battalions deployed to manage missile impacts.
Israel’s advanced air defense systems intercepted the majority of incoming missiles, limiting casualties to 28, compared to Iran’s reported 627 deaths.
Despite the loss of eight Israeli drones, no fighter jets were shot down, a testament to the IDF’s operational prowess.
Defence Minister Israel Katz declared, “Iran’s ability to enrich uranium to 90% has been neutralized for a prolonged period, and its missile production has been severely damaged.”
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir echoed this sentiment, stating that Iran is no longer a nuclear threshold state, with its program set back years.
International Support and Ceasefire:
The operation received backing from the United States, which joined Israel on June 22, deploying 14 bunker-buster bombs and cruise missiles against three key Iranian nuclear sites.
President Donald Trump, while expressing frustration over post-ceasefire skirmishes, played a pivotal role in brokering a ceasefire on June 24, which both nations have largely upheld.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer also voiced support, with Rutte stating that the U.S. strikes did not violate international law.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar defended Israel’s actions, arguing that the strikes were a last-resort measure against an imminent threat.
“Israel acted at the final moment to protect itself, the region, and the international community,” he said, criticizing Iran’s moves to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Iran’s Response and Regional Implications:
Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes targeted Israeli cities, including Beersheba and Holon, resulting in civilian casualties and significant property damage.
Iranian state media claimed a “victory” in the conflict, but independent analyses suggest that only a small number of Iran’s missiles hit militarily significant targets, with many lacking precision.
The Iranian regime has since launched a domestic crackdown, arresting hundreds suspected of espionage, a move analysts attribute to paranoia over Israel’s intelligence capabilities within Iran.
The operation has reshaped the regional security landscape, with Israel demonstrating its ability to penetrate and disrupt Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure.
The Houthis in Yemen, aligned with Iran, claimed responsibility for a ballistic missile attack on southern Israel, but the IDF’s robust response underscored its commitment to neutralizing all threats.
A New Era of Israeli Resolve:
As the dust settles, Israeli leaders have signaled a shift in policy. “After October 7, immunity is over,” Katz warned, referring to Iran’s support for regional proxies like Hamas and Hezbollah.
The successful campaign has bolstered Israel’s deterrence, with officials vowing to act decisively against any future nuclear advancements by Iran.
The international community remains divided, with some emerging markets condemning the strikes, but Israel’s supporters argue that the operation was a critical intervention to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran.
As the ceasefire holds, Israel continues to monitor Iran’s activities, ready to respond to any violations. For now, the nation stands united, confident that its preemptive action has secured its future against a formidable adversary.
