Israel Strikes Key Iranian Sites in Major Escalation

Israel has launched 'Operation Rising Lion,' achieving air superiority over Tehran and much of Iran, and has destroyed key military and nuclear sites, including the Natanz nuclear facility. Israeli officials report the neutralization of much of Iran’s air defense and missile capabilities, enabling strikes on strategic targets and resulting in the deaths of senior Iranian military and intelligence leaders. In response, Iran and allied groups have launched missile and drone attacks on Israeli cities, causing civilian casualties and damaging infrastructure, including the Bazan oil refinery near Haifa. Israel has issued evacuation warnings in parts of Tehran, prompting widespread displacement. Despite international calls for de-escalation, the U.S. has refused to support a G7 statement urging restraint, maintaining pressure on Iran to halt its nuclear ambitions. Israeli leaders reiterate their objectives are limited to neutralizing Iranian nuclear and missile threats, not seeking regime change.