Overnight, Israel launched a sweeping wave of airstrikes deep inside Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, top military officials, and research sites in what the Israeli military is calling “Operation Rising Lion.” In response, Iran has fired more than 100 armed drones toward Israeli territory — raising fears that the region is now on the brink of full-scale war.
According to a statement from the Israel Defense Forces, the operation involved 200 fighter jets and over 330 precision-guided munitions, striking more than 100 targets across Iran. Among the reported casualties are two of Iran’s top military leaders — Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Iran’s military chief of staff, and Hossein Salami, head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps — both confirmed killed by Iranian state television.
Netanyahu: “A Fight for Our Survival”
In a video address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the strikes as a necessary step to eliminate what he called an “existential threat.” He stated, “Operation Rising Lion is a targeted military campaign to dismantle Iran’s nuclear capability and ensure the safety of the Israeli people.” Netanyahu warned the strikes will “continue for as many days as it takes.”
Iran Responds Swiftly with Drones
Within hours of the strikes, Iran launched a barrage of more than 100 drones aimed at Israeli targets. The Israel Defense Forces say their air defense systems are actively working to intercept the incoming drones — which are still en route and expected to reach Israeli airspace within hours.
IDF Spokesperson Brigadier General Efi Deparin, speaking this morning, said the operation was launched in response to intelligence confirming that Iran had made “significant progress” in its nuclear weapons program, posing an imminent threat to Israel. He added, “This was the right time, with full military readiness, to act decisively.”
Iranian Leadership Vows Retaliation
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, issued a warning through state media earlier today, saying Israel “should prepare for a harsh response.” Iranian officials have signaled that the drone attacks may be only the beginning of a broader counteroffensive.
General Deparin did not provide details on Israel’s damage assessment or interception rate, but emphasized that “all defense systems are activated and operating to neutralize threats.”
Global Reaction and Diplomatic Stakes
The escalation comes as international efforts to resume nuclear negotiations between Iran and the U.S. were set to begin this weekend. Those talks are now in serious jeopardy. Global leaders are urging restraint, but with both sides trading deadly blows, the potential for further violence remains extremely high.
SNEWS TV will continue to monitor this volatile situation and bring you updates as events unfold.
Reporting by Carl Montel.
