Israel-Iran Conflict Escalates: A Breakdown of the Latest Attacks and Reactions
June 13, 2025
In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, Israel has launched coordinated strikes on multiple Iranian nuclear and military facilities, triggering fears of a wider regional war. Iranian officials have vowed a “harsh response,” while global powers urge restraint amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
What Was Targeted?
The Israeli strikes, which began early Friday, targeted high-value locations including:
- Tehran – Strikes near military command centers and residential districts.
- Natanz – Explosions at Iran’s main uranium enrichment facility.
- Tabriz – Reports of bombings near a nuclear research center and military bases.
- Isfahan, Arak, and Kermanshah – Additional strikes on strategic installations.
Social media footage shows significant structural damage across Tehran, including civilian zones, raising humanitarian concerns.
Casualties and High-Profile Deaths
According to Iranian state media, several senior figures were killed:
- Hossein Salami – Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
- Mohammad Bagheri – Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces.
- Ali Shamkhani – Senior adviser to Supreme Leader Khamenei, critically injured.
- Gholamali Rashid – Head of the Khatam al-Anbiya military base.
- Fereydoon Abbasi and Mohammad Tehranchi – Nuclear scientists assassinated in targeted operations.
Iran's Response
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned the attacks, calling them “dirty and bloody crimes” and promising that Israel “will not go unpunished.” Spokespersons from Iran’s armed forces declared that Israel will pay a “heavy price” for its aggression.
Israel’s Justification
In a prerecorded message, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the strikes as necessary to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Military Chief Eyal Zamir echoed the sentiment, describing the operation as a “fight to preserve our existence.”
U.S. Reaction
While affirming its alliance with Israel, the U.S. distanced itself from the operation. President Donald Trump stated that Washington had no role in the attack but emphasized, “Iran cannot have a nuclear bomb.” He confirmed readiness to assist Israel in case of Iranian retaliation.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed the importance of protecting American forces, while Senator Chris Murphy criticized the timing, warning it could derail diplomatic efforts with Iran.
Nuclear Risks and IAEA Oversight
Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), confirmed that the Natanz facility was among the sites hit. The agency is monitoring radiation levels and remains in contact with its inspectors on the ground.
Global Condemnation and Warnings
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged “maximum restraint” and condemned any action that could further destabilize the region. Oman, which has acted as a mediator in nuclear negotiations, denounced the Israeli strike as “reckless” and a “flagrant violation” of international law.
The Sultanate called on the international community to step in and prevent a broader conflict, holding Israel fully responsible for the escalation.
As both nations brace for potential retaliation and wider fallout, the world watches with growing concern. The latest Israeli operation against Iran marks a dangerous turning point in an already volatile region, with consequences that could reverberate far beyond the Middle East.