In the most direct and intense confrontation between Iran and Israel in modern history, both nations exchanged massive aerial and missile attacks over the past 48 hours, sending shockwaves across the Middle East and beyond.
On the night of June 12, Israel launched “Operation Rising Lion”, a sweeping military offensive involving more than 200 fighter jets and drones. The strikes targeted over 100 key Iranian facilities including nuclear enrichment plants at Natanz, Esfahan, and Fordow, as well as missile depots and homes of senior Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) officials.
Among the high-profile casualties reported were IRGC Aerospace Force Commander Amir Ali Hajizadeh, Major General Hossein Salami, and multiple top nuclear scientists. Iranian state media has confirmed at least 78 fatalities and over 300 injuries, including civilians. Video footage from Tehran and Isfahan showed large plumes of smoke rising from military complexes and civilian neighbourhoods alike.
In retaliation, Iran launched “Operation True Promise III” on the evening of June 13, firing over 150 ballistic missiles and swarming Israel with more than 100 drones. Air raid sirens screamed across Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, and parts of Jerusalem, while Israel’s Iron Dome and allied American systems intercepted the majority of the incoming projectiles. Despite this, several strikes breached defences, causing at least four deaths and dozens of injuries.
Both countries have framed the attacks as justifiable defence. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the strikes were aimed at “crippling Iran’s nuclear weapons capability and deterring future threats.” Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei condemned the Israeli actions as “an act of war,” vowing continued resistance and potential regional retaliation.
The United States, while reaffirming Israel’s right to self-defence, has called for de-escalation and urged Iran to return to the nuclear negotiating table. President Donald Trump warned Iran that “further aggression will meet a swift and overwhelming response,” yet has kept channels open for diplomatic engagement.
The international community has responded with alarm. Several countries have closed their airspaces to both Iranian and Israeli aircraft. Oil prices surged by more than 7% overnight, and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have led to delays in global shipping.
With both nations signalling the potential for further military action, fears of a broader regional war involving Iran’s allies such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen are mounting. The conflict has already led to significant civilian hardship and political instability.
Diplomatic analysts warn that unless immediate ceasefire talks are initiated, the Middle East could plunge into a multi-front war with devastating global consequences.
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