Israel targets Iranian commanders, nuclear sites in massive air strikes

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have conducted extensive overnight airstrikes across Iran, targeting over 100 locations, including military leaders and nuclear facilities, according to statements released by Israeli military and government officials. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the initial wave of strikes early on June 13, 2025, as “successful” and emphasized continued operations targeting Iranian nuclear capabilities and military leadership.  

“We have struck the high command, we have struck top scientists who are promoting the development of atomic bombs, we have struck nuclear facilities,” Netanyahu said. 

“The IDF eliminated the three most senior military commanders of the Iranian regime during the night,” the Israeli General Staff confirmed via Telegram. The strikes, dubbed Operation Rising Lion, reportedly involved more than 200 fighter jets, coordinated using precise intelligence gathered by Israeli intelligence services. 

The Iranian commanders reportedly killed in the operation included: 

Mohammad Hossein Baqeri, Chief of Staff of Iran’s armed forces 
Hossein Salami, Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) 
Khatem-Ghalam Ali Rashid, Commander of Khatem al-Anbiya’ Emergency Command 
Natanz nuclear facility targeted 

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that thestrikes hit Iran’s Natanz uranium enrichment facility. Natanz, a key nuclear site located in central Iran, houses extensive underground centrifuge halls essential for enriching uranium. The facility has previously been a target of sabotage operations and cyberattacks attributed to Israeli intelligence. 

IAEA Director Rafael Grossi expressed “deeply worrying” concerns, noting that inspectors are closely monitoring radiation levels at the site. Iranian authorities reported damage to the Natanz facility but stated that there were no casualties or external radiation detected. 

Footage showing the moment that the Natanz Nuclear Facility in Central Iran was targeted earlier by another wave of missile strikes from Israel. pic.twitter.com/IcFpFzKOrl— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) June 13, 2025

Iranian retaliation 

Iranian officials stated that Israel’s strikes reinforced Tehran’s determination to pursue its nuclear program. “Such a predatory regime can only be addressed with the language of force,” the Iranian government stated, underscoring the country’s insistence on its right to nuclear technology and ballistic capabilities. 

The Iranian military’s general staff warned that there would be “no limits” to their response following these unprecedented attacks, raising concerns about potential escalation in the region. 

In response, the Iranian military launched approximately 100 drones toward Israeli territory, Israeli army spokesman Avichay Adraee announced. Israeli air defense systems were duly activated to intercept incoming threats. 

Neighboring Jordan also reported intercepting missiles and drones violating its airspace. Jordan’s state-run Petra news agency cited military sources confirming successful interception operations by Jordanian air defenses. 

International reactions and calls for restraint 

The escalating conflict triggered immediate international responses calling for restraint and diplomatic de-escalation. 

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified America’s non-involvement but emphasized a clear warning to Tehran: “Iran must not target American interests or personnel.” Rubio stated that Israel had informed Washington ahead of its actions, citing self-defense. 

Turkey strongly condemned the strikes as an “aggressive” and destabilizing act. “Israel must immediately end its aggressive actions that could lead to new conflicts,” the Turkish Foreign Ministry said, urging international intervention to prevent a wider war. 

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized the urgent need for de-escalation, underscoring the unilateral nature of Israel’s actions and calling for concerted diplomatic efforts from allies. 

China expressed deep concern over the attack, urging all involved parties to promote regional peace and stability. The Chinese Foreign Ministry highlighted its readiness “to play a constructive role” in calming the crisis. 

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot similarly urged restraint and called for diplomatic channels to remain open, reaffirming Israel’s right to self-defense while emphasizing the importance of maintaining regional stability. 

Russia also voiced alarm over the events. “Russia is concerned and condemns the sharp escalation of tensions,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday, as quoted by Russian news agencies. He added that President Vladimir Putin is being kept “informed in real time” about developments.The post Israel targets Iranian commanders, nuclear sites in massive air strikes appeared first on AeroTime.

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