(Rightallegiance.com) – Israel launched a sweeping preemptive air and drone strike early on June 13, targeting over 100 sites in Iran—most notably the Natanz uranium-enrichment complex—marking one of the most significant escalations in regional tensions. The operation, officially named “Rising Lion,” involved around 200 aircraft and coordinated Mossad covert actions within Iran, aimed at crippling Iran’s nuclear weaponization capacity.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed strikes at Natanz were designed to “strike at the heart of Iran’s nuclear enrichment program,” citing the facility’s potential to produce enough highly enriched uranium for approximately nine nuclear weapons. While satellite imagery reveals significant material damage, analysts caution that critical underground infrastructure may remain intact, as Israel lacks the specialized bunker-busting munitions required, unlike U.S. forces.
Iran state media reported at least 78 people killed and over 329 injured, including top IRGC commanders like Hossein Salami, Mohammad Bagheri, and several key nuclear scientists. In response, Iranian forces launched more than 100 drones toward Israel; most were intercepted by Israeli defenses and regional allies.
The operation sparked global alarm and swift diplomatic reaction. The UN’s atomic watchdog (IAEA) convened an emergency session after confirming a strike at Natanz with no radiation leak detected. European governments and regional powers urged de-escalation, while Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei promised a “bitter and painful” retaliation.
In Washington, U.S. officials stressed that the strikes were Israeli-led but acknowledged the U.S. had been informed in advance and provided “exquisite” intelligence support while maintaining non-participation in combat. Domestic lawmakers in both parties voiced concern that the conflict could drag the U.S. into broader military entanglement and abruptly derail ongoing diplomacy with Iran in Oman.
Security experts note the strike sets back Iran’s nuclear timeline but isn’t a knockout blow. Without U.S.-grade bunker-busters, deep underground facilities likely remain secure, and Iran may double down, accelerating efforts to shield its program. Moreover, Israeli analysts suggest the operation is meant to send a strategic deterrent message—and could unfold over several days if Iran escalates.
The strike’s ripple effects are mounting: oil prices surged over 10%, prompting investor concern about potential stagflation, defense stocks rose sharply, and commercial air traffic in the region was disrupted due to security threats.
As the dust settles over Tehran, attention now shifts to Iran’s next move. Will it launch missile strikes, mobilize proxy forces, or escalate diplomatically? Meanwhile, a high-stakes conference in Oman aimed at resuming nuclear talks may collapse under the weight of military escalation. With Tehran’s resolve and Israel’s intention to sustain the campaign, the region teeters on the brink of further escalation—with global consequences at stake.
Well commendable Israel on the right path