Current Situation

On June 13, 2025, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) executed Operation Rising Lion, striking over 100 targets across Iran. According to the IDF, the main target was the Natanz uranium enrichment facility in Isfahan province, Iran’s largest nuclear site. The airstrikes caused significant structural damage to underground centrifuge facilities and electrical systems.

Additional strikes reportedly killed top Iranian military figures including Maj. Gen. Hossein Salami, Maj. Gen. Mohammad Bagheri, Maj. Gen. Gholam Ali Rashid, and Brig. Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh. Iranian state outlets also reported the deaths of nuclear scientists Fereydoun Abbasi and Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi.

Iran’s Response: Operation “True Promise 3”

Hours after Israel’s operation, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched Operation “True Promise 3”, firing over 100 drones and ballistic missiles at Israeli targets, including military airbases and cities such as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

According to a statement posted by the IRGC on X:

In response to the aggression and criminal assault carried out this morning by the savage, terrorist, and child-killing Zionist regime… the IRGC has executed Operation “True Promise 3” against dozens of targets, including military centers and air bases of the usurping Zionist regime in the occupied territories.

The IRGC emphasized that the attack was launched on the night of Eid al-Ghadir with the battle cry “O Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS),” and warned more operations would follow.

Casualties in Israel

According to emergency services provider Magen David Adom, at least 22 people were injured from Iranian missile strikes across central Israel, including 2 seriously wounded. Despite rumors of strikes in northern Israel, major verified damage was concentrated in areas near Tel Aviv, as confirmed by NBC News and CNN. There is no verified evidence of burning buildings or rescue efforts in northern areas.

IAEA Assessment

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed damage to Natanz but reported no elevated radiation levels. The Fordow and Esfahan nuclear facilities remain unaffected. Director General Rafael Grossi called the situation “deeply concerning,” citing risks of radioactive contamination and violations of IAEA resolutions.

IAEA Director General @RafaelMGrossi addressed the Board of Governors this morning regarding the situation in Iran. pic.twitter.com/a2yI4ytzyB

— IAEA – International Atomic Energy Agency ⚛️ (@iaeaorg) June 13, 2025

Khamenei’s Warning

In a televised address reported by IRNA, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed harsh retaliation:

Strong action should be taken, and will be taken. We will have no leniency on them. Life will undoubtedly turn bleak for them. The Islamic Republic will, by God’s grace, defeat the Zionist regime.

Khamenei also confirmed the deaths of senior military leaders and immediately appointed replacements. He described the Israeli strikes as a “grave mistake” and assured the Iranian people that the response would not be taken lightly.

President Trump’s Reaction

Former U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social calling on Iran to “just make a deal” and warned that further resistance would bring “even more brutal” consequences. He referenced his earlier 60-day ultimatum to Iran, stating that June 13 marked “day 61.”

Outlook

The Middle East now faces its most dangerous flashpoint in decades. While Israel and Iran have engaged in years of covert hostilities, the latest escalation brings both nations to the brink of direct regional war. The IAEA and UN continue to call for restraint, but military movements suggest both sides are preparing for prolonged confrontation.