TEHRAN: Israel launched a massive aerial assault on Iran early Friday, targeting over 100 locations including key nuclear and military sites in Tehran. The strikes reportedly killed Iran’s Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, General Mohammad Bagheri, and Revolutionary Guards commander Hossein Salami, along with several top nuclear scientists.
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a stern warning, vowing that Israel would face a “bitter and painful” fate in response to the deadly assault. Iranian state media also confirmed civilian casualties, including women and children, after residential buildings in Tehran were struck.
In retaliation, Iran launched more than 100 drones toward Israeli territory, with Israeli defense systems working to intercept the incoming threats. Israel has since declared a state of emergency and closed its airspace, anticipating further escalation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the campaign—launched with 200 fighter jets—as a targeted effort to dismantle Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. He claimed the initial phase of the operation was “very successful” and confirmed it would continue for as long as necessary.
Iran, meanwhile, accused the United States of complicity, stating the attacks could not have occurred without U.S. knowledge or approval. However, U.S. President Donald Trump clarified in an interview that while he had advance notice of the operation, the U.S. was not directly involved. He warned Iran not to attack American personnel or interests.
As tensions surge, regional air traffic has been disrupted, with Iran and Iraq closing airspace and halting flights.
