Israel Attacks Iran’s Nuclear Facilities, Triggering Missile Response

Israel’s Preemptive Strikes Hit Iran Hard

June 14, 2025 - Israel launched a large-scale military operation against Iran on June 13, targeting over 100 nuclear and military sites in a bid to halt Iran’s nuclear program. The strikes, involving 200 fighter jets, hit key facilities like a uranium enrichment plant near Natanz and military bases in Tehran and Isfahan. Iranian sources report the deaths of senior commanders, including Amir Ali Hajizadeh of the Revolutionary Guards air force, and six nuclear scientists.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the operation as a “decisive blow” to Iran’s nuclear ambitions, claiming it significantly set back their capabilities. The attacks damaged critical infrastructure, including parts of the Fordow nuclear site, according to Iranian state media.

Iran Retaliates with Missile Barrage

Iran responded with a massive missile attack, launching ballistic missiles at Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Explosions were reported across Tehran, with social media posts on X showing bright flashes over Iraq and panic in Israel as residents stocked up on supplies. At least 35 people in Israel were injured by shrapnel, and a civilian was rescued from a damaged building in Tel Aviv. Iran claimed its air defenses downed two Israeli jets, though Israel denied reports of a captured pilot.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, condemned the strikes as a “criminal act” and promised a severe retaliation. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called the attacks “state terrorism,” asserting Iran’s right to self-defense under international law.

Global Fallout and Economic Shocks

World leaders are calling for de-escalation to prevent a broader conflict. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong urged restraint, while the U.S., reportedly not consulted on Israel’s strikes, has evacuated some embassy staff from Iraq and authorized the departure of military families from the region. Nuclear talks with Iran, set to resume in Oman, are now at risk.

The conflict has jolted global markets, with oil prices surging over 4% and the Dow dropping 868 points on Friday. In Israel, a state of emergency has led to crowded supermarkets, as seen in X posts. Iran-aligned groups, like Yemen’s Houthis, have claimed additional attacks, raising fears of regional escalation. The U.N. Security Council is set to hold an emergency meeting to address the crisis.

Sources: News reports, social media updates

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