Early Friday (local time), Israel carried out airstrikes on Iran, targeting its nuclear facilities and major military sites. The attacks led to explosions across Tehran, the capital city. Security footage captured scenes of the strikes, including a video showing a large building on fire, with smoke rising into the air.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) posted, “Building goes up in flames in Tehran following Israeli airstrikes,” along with a video of the fire.
Prime Minister Netanyahu Speaks Out:
In a televised speech, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the operation, calling it “Operation Rising Lion.” He said it was a military mission aimed at reducing the threat Iran poses to Israel’s survival. “This operation will continue for as long as needed until the danger is removed,” he said.
Iran’s Response: Ayatollah Khamenei Promises Revenge
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, strongly condemned Israel’s attack on Tehran. He accused Israel of committing a crime against the country by targeting residential areas and promised a harsh retaliation. “This crime shows the evil nature of the Zionist regime, and they will face a painful and bitter outcome,” Khamenei said, according to state media IRNA.
Reports from IRNA also claimed that the Israeli strikes killed several top Iranian military leaders and scientists.
Israeli Military Confirms Major Kills
On its official X account, the Israel Defense Forces stated that the Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, the leader of the IRGC, and the Commander of Iran’s Emergency Command were all killed in the strikes. They described these individuals as dangerous figures responsible for mass violence and claimed the world is safer without them.
