(Tel Aviv) – The Israeli Defense Forces launched an air strike on Iran early Friday morning (local time) as the Middle Eastern nation also declared a state of emergency. Officials in Israel referred to this as a “preemptive strike” that targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, in addition to military sites — including long-range missile facilities that were struck. The IDF says dozens of air force jets were used during the operation.
As per the state of emergency in Israel, airspace was closed, and reports indicated the nation was bracing for expected retaliatory measures. Air raid sirens were heard in Tel Aviv.
Meanwhile, US officials have confirmed their lack of involvement. No military support or assistance was provided to Israel’s operation. Israel did alert US officials of the attack ahead of time, citing self-defense. The Pentagon notes US forces remain on high alert with the goal of defending and advancing American interests.
In Iran, officials reported there were explosions in Tehran — the capital city. Airspace was closed. Iranian state media issued reports saying General Hossein Salami — the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps — had been killed. But his death and that of other Iranian officials have not been confirmed.
Iran has vowed a “history-making” retaliation. At least one dozen civilians were killed in Iran, according to Tehran. This all follows the pattern of escalating tension in the Middle East — as highlighted by the Israel-Palestine war, hostages held in Gaza, the October 7 attacks, as well as the painfully obvious yet perhaps understated thousands of years of religious conflict.
