Israel-Iran Conflict Escalates: Israeli Airstrikes Kill Top Iranian Military Leaders, Damage Nuclear Facility

đď¸ Date: June 13, 2025
đ Location: Tehran, Iran
Early Friday morning, Israel launched a major airstrike on Tehran, targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and military leadership. The attack reportedly resulted in the deaths of Hossein Salami, head of Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guard, and Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces. Explosions were heard across the capital.
Following the attack, Iranâs Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed severe retaliation, while military spokesperson Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi blamed both Israel and the United States, warning they would pay a âheavy price.â
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel claimed the strike targeted the core of Iranâs nuclear program, especially the Natanz enrichment site. The move came just a day after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) declared Iran in violation of its nuclear obligations, marking the first such resolution in 20 years.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said he was informed in advance of Israelâs actions but insisted there were âno surprises.â In contrast, Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied any U.S. involvement and cautioned Iran against retaliating against U.S. personnel or interests.
- Saudi Arabia strongly condemned the Israeli strike, calling it a violation of Iranâs sovereignty and international law.
- New Zealand, Japan, the UN, and Oman expressed concern over escalating tensions:
- UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged both nations to show maximum restraint and avoid a regional war.
- Oman, a mediator in U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations, labeled Israelâs action a reckless escalation.
đŽđł Indiaâs Advisory
The Indian embassies in Tehran and Tel Aviv issued advisories, asking citizens to avoid non-essential travel amid rising regional instability.