Israel targets Iran and its proxies in multi-front campaign across Middle East.
In an unprecedented escalation, Israel launched simultaneous airstrikes early Saturday on Iran, Iraq, and Syria, ostensibly targeting sites associated with Iran.
Four Iranian soldiers were reported killed in Tehran, marking the first time Israel has openly claimed an attack on Iran itself.
The Israeli government stated that the strikes targeted military installations linked to Iran and were intended as a response to recent attacks by “Iran and its proxies.”
What Happened in Iran?
The strikes began just after 2 a.m. on Saturday (22:30 GMT on Friday), following a decision reportedly authorized by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
Initial waves struck Tehran and spread across the provinces of Ilam and Khuzestan, culminating in what Israel’s military dubbed “operation Days of Reckoning.”
By 6 a.m., the strikes were declared complete, with Israel claiming it had “achieved its objectives,” which included dismantling Iran’s missile production facilities and air defense systems.
Additional Strikes in Syria and Iraq
Israel also targeted military sites in central and southern Syria, according to Syrian state news agency SANA, although Israel has yet to confirm these strikes.
In Iraq, explosions near Basra led to temporary airspace closure, with officials later clarifying that the explosions occurred across the border in Iran.
Iran’s Response and Escalation Fears
In response, Iran vowed to continue defending against Israeli strikes on Iranian and allied forces in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iraq.
Meanwhile, Israel warned Tehran against any retaliation, with residents in Iranian cities waking up to explosions and alerts.
The United States denied involvement in the strikes, though President Joe Biden was reportedly updated throughout the attack. The escalation has raised concerns of broader conflict, with countries across the region on high alert for potential reprisals.
