In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Iran launched a significant missile barrage targeting Israel late on Friday, June 13, 2025, in retaliation for a large-scale Israeli military operation against Iranian nuclear and military sites earlier the same day.
Earlier on Friday, Israel executed a preemptive and extensive airstrike campaign, dubbed “Operation Rising Lion,” aimed at crippling Iran’s nuclear program and military capabilities. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported over 200 airstrikes involving more than 100 fighter jets, striking over 100 targets including nuclear facilities such as the Natanz uranium enrichment plant, missile manufacturing sites, and senior Iranian military commanders. Among those killed in the Israeli strikes was Hossein Salami, the commander of Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards, along with other high-ranking officials.
In response, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and over 100 drones toward Israel. The missile strikes caused explosions in central Tel Aviv, with at least one missile impacting a residential building, resulting in significant structural damage and fires. Sirens blared across Israeli cities including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, prompting civilians to seek shelter in bomb shelters as the country’s air defense systems engaged to intercept incoming threats. Despite interceptions, some missiles successfully hit targets within Israeli territory.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned Israel’s attacks as a “wicked and bloody” act and vowed a decisive and uncompromising retaliation, stating that Israel would face the “bitter fate” of its aggression. He declared that Tehran’s response would not be “half measured,” signaling a sustained campaign against Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the initial strikes as a necessary defense against an existential threat posed by Iran’s advancing nuclear program and its support for hostile proxies in the region. He emphasized that the operation would continue for as long as needed to neutralize the Iranian threat.
The Israeli government declared a state of emergency and mobilized tens of thousands of troops along its borders in anticipation of further Iranian retaliation. Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv was closed indefinitely as air defense units remained on high alert.
The United States, while closely monitoring the situation, clarified that it was not directly involved in the Israeli strikes and had reduced its military presence in the region amid the escalating conflict.
This latest round of hostilities marks one of the most severe confrontations between Israel and Iran in recent years, raising concerns about a broader regional conflict with significant implications for global security and energy markets.
Summary:
– Israel launched a major airstrike campaign on Iranian nuclear and military sites, killing key commanders including Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami.
– Iran retaliated with hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones targeting Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv, causing explosions and damage.
– Both nations have declared readiness for prolonged conflict; Israel mobilized troops and closed its main airport.
– Iran’s Supreme Leader vowed harsh and decisive retaliation against Israel.
– The U.S. is not militarily involved but is closely watching the escalating situation.
