Iran Strikes: Revolutionary Guard Chief Killed
Israeli forces launched a major operation targeting Iran’s nuclear program, including key facilities and scientists, sparking fears of a wider conflict. The “Rising Lion” operation, as it was called, reportedly claimed the lives of senior Iranian commanders, including IRGC Commander hossein Salami, escalating tensions in the region. The strikes focused on Iran’s nuclear enrichment, weaponization, and ballistic missile sites, according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. While the US denies involvement, the international community watches closely as Iran vows retaliation.This dramatic escalation has the potential to destabilize the region. keep up-to-date with News Directory 3 for breaking developments.Discover what’s next for the complex and challenging relationship between these nations.
Israel Targets iran’s Nuclear Program in “Rising Lion” Operation
Updated June 13, 2025
The Israeli military conducted strikes inside Iran, reportedly killing key figures in Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and targeting the country’s nuclear program.The operation, dubbed “Rising Lion,” hit sites including the Natanz enrichment facility, according too Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Among those reportedly killed were IRGC Commander Hossein salami, senior IRGC commander Gholamali rashid, and nuclear scientists Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi and Fereydoun Abbasi, iranian state media reported. Netanyahu stated that the strikes aimed at Iran’s nuclear enrichment and weaponization programs, and also its ballistic missile sites.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed the Natanz facility was hit and stated they are in contact with Iranian authorities. The IAEA had previously criticized Iran for continuing uranium enrichment to near weapon-grade levels.
Following the Israeli strikes, large explosions were reported in Tehran, with smoke rising from buildings.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the U.S. was not involved in the attack, emphasizing the protection of American forces in the region. “Israel advised us that they believe this action was necessary for its self-defense,” Rubio said. He cautioned Iran against targeting U.S. interests or personnel.
President Trump has yet to comment but held a National Security Council meeting Friday morning. He previously expressed concern that Israeli strikes could derail U.S. nuclear talks with Iran.
“We struck at the heart of Iran’s nuclear enrichment program. We struck at the heart of Iran’s nuclear weaponization program. We targeted iran’s leading nuclear scientists working on the Iranian bomb. We also struck at the heart of Iran’s ballistic missile program,” Netanyahu said.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that Israel “should anticipate a harsh punishment,” adding, “The strong hand of the Islamic Republic will not let them go.” The israeli Defense Forces (IDF) described the operation as a “preemptive, precise, combined offensive” to counter Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
“The State of Israel has no choice but to fulfill the obligation to act in defense of its citizens and will continue to do so everywhere it is required to do so, as we have done in the past,” the IDF said.
What’s next
The situation remains highly volatile.The U.S.is scheduled to hold a sixth round of nuclear talks with Iran in Muscat, Oman, on Sunday, though the strikes could impact those discussions. The U.S. recently ordered a downsizing of its diplomatic and military presence in the Middle east,citing potential dangers.