Israel launched a military operation against Iran late Thursday night, marking a dramatic escalation in Middle East tensions. According to international media and official sources, the Israeli Air Force carried out targeted strikes inside Iranian territory.
Videos circulating on social media show explosions in various areas of Tehran, Iran’s capital. The full extent of the damage and any casualties has yet to be confirmed.
⚡️BREAKING
IRAN HAS LAUNCHED MISSILES AT ISRAEL pic.twitter.com/NxCry7Mwuh
— Iran Observer (@IranObserver0) June 13, 2025
Israel Declares Nationwide Emergency
In response, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared a “special state of emergency” across the country, citing the likelihood of imminent retaliation from Iran in the form of missile and drone attacks.
“An immediate missile and UAV strike on Israeli territory and civilians is expected,” the Defense Ministry said in an official statement.
Civilians have been ordered to stay near protected areas, follow instructions from Israel’s Home Front Command, and avoid non-essential activities.
What Was Targeted?
According to Axios, the strikes were aimed at facilities linked to Iran’s missile and nuclear programs. While the exact targets remain undisclosed, the attack follows weeks of heightened rhetoric and military warnings between both nations.
This is the first direct Israeli airstrike on Iranian soil in recent years.
U.S. Response
President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States had been briefed in advance but did not participate in the operation. Earlier Thursday, he urged Israel to hold off on any military action, favoring diplomatic negotiations over escalation.
“We’re close to a good deal,” Trump said, referring to ongoing nuclear talks. “I don’t want them to intervene because I think it could ruin everything.”
Following the attack, the U.S. began scaling back its diplomatic personnel in the region, especially in Iraq, as a precaution.
Iran’s Warning
Although Iran has yet to issue an official response, military-linked accounts posted a clear message ahead of the strike: “WE ARE READY.”
Analysts believe Iran may retaliate directly or through regional allies such as Hezbollah or the Houthis. A wave of counterattacks remains a strong possibility.
Global Impact
Oil prices jumped sharply in early trading. Brent crude surged between 2% and 5%, reaching $72.60 per barrel in some markets. The United Nations Security Council is expected to hold an emergency session in the coming hours.
What’s Next
- Retaliation likely: Israel braces for incoming attacks via missiles or drones.
- Daily life disrupted: Schools are closed, and citizens remain under alert nationwide.
- Diplomatic talks in jeopardy: The upcoming round of nuclear negotiations may be delayed or cancelled.
- Regional instability: Neighboring countries are monitoring for potential fallout.
This story is developing and will be updated as new information becomes available.