Friday rise in tensions as Iran launched over 100 drones toward Israel, retaliating against Israeli airstrikes that killed key Iranian military leaders and nuclear scientists. Israel confirmed the attack and said its defence systems intercepted most drones.
As a consequence, authorities shut down Ben Gurion Airport and activated underground hospital units.
Earlier, 200 Israeli jets carried out a large-scale air campaign across Iran as they confirmed that Israel would soon attack Iran. They targeted over 100 locations, including Tehran, Natanz, Isfahan, and Arak. Reports said the strikes hit nuclear research centres and various military and civilian sites.
The airstrikes killed top Iranian figures like the Military Chief Major General Mohammad Bagheri, IRGC Commander Hossein Salami, and Major General Gholamali Rashid. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei quickly appointed General Ahmad Vahidi as the new IRGC chief. He also named Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari as the interim Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces.
The attack also killed nuclear scientists Dr. Mohammad Mahdi Tehranchi and Dr. Fereydoon Abbasi. Their deaths sparked fears of a regional nuclear crisis. Still, the IAEA confirmed radiation levels at Iranian nuclear sites remained normal.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi called Israel’s attack a blatant violation of the UN Charter. “Iran’s armed forces will not hesitate to show full strength,” he warned. The IRGC echoed that message, vowing to deliver a clear and forceful response.
The IRGC stated, “Despite the Zionist regime’s heinous crime, we are confident in the dignity and resistance of the Iranian people.” Iranian leaders declared their full readiness to escalate further if needed. Their statement signalled that more retaliation could come.
U.S. President Donald Trump told Fox News he knew of Israel’s plan in advance. While denying direct U.S. involvement. He said, “We will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons.” He added that the U.S. hopes Iran returns to the negotiating table.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned Israel’s attack and expressed serious concern over the strikes on nuclear sites. “The region is already too sensitive for another war,” he said. He urged both nations to avoid further military escalation.
Israeli officials said they expect more Iranian retaliation and remain on high alert. They warned that any Iranian strike would trigger the launch of hundreds of ballistic missiles. The Israeli military stated, “The upcoming hours will be challenging.”
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