Israel Launches Preemptive Attack on Iran in Escalating Tensions
In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, Israel has launched a "preemptive" military operation against Iran, which Israel claims poses an existential threat. Early Friday morning, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) conducted airstrikes on key targets linked to Iran’s nuclear program. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the operation, dubbed "Operation Rising Lion," stating that it would persist until the threat is neutralized.
Netanyahu emphasized that the actions were necessary for Israel’s survival, declaring the operation will continue for an indefinite duration to ensure safety. Following these strikes, Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz warned of expected missile and drone retaliation from Iran, prompting an emergency alert within Israel and restricting public gatherings.
U.S. officials confirm awareness of the strikes but underscore that Israel acted independently. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated this point, emphasizing that the U.S. remains committed to protecting its personnel in the region and has urged Iran not to target American interests.
The backdrop to these military actions includes stalled U.S.-Iran negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. President Donald Trump had previously expressed a preference for diplomacy over military confrontation, indicating that U.S.-Iran talks were important. However, regional experts suggest that the timing of the strikes may be a strategic move by Trump to reinforce his administration’s hardline stance against Iran, stressing deadlines for diplomatic agreements.
Iran, for its part, has vowed retaliation, with statements from its defense minister claiming that U.S. bases in the region are within their reach.
This situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as the international community responds to Israel’s precarious maneuvering in the Middle East.
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