Israel Strikes Iran: Massive Explosions Rock Tehran, Chief of Staff Reported Killed
In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Tehran early Friday, June 13, 2025, targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities and military sites in a preemptive operation dubbed “Rising Lion.”
International News: In a stunning escalation, Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Tehran on June 13, 2025, targeting Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure in a preemptive operation codenamed “Thunderbolt.” The attacks, which triggered colossal explosions across the capital, reportedly killed Iran’s Chief of Staff, General Mohammad Bagheri, intensifying fears of a broader Middle East conflict.
Thunderbolt Strikes Tehran
Israel’s operation involved precision airstrikes on key targets, including Iran’s nuclear research facility in Arak and military command centers in Tehran’s suburbs. The Israeli Air Force deployed advanced F-35 jets, striking with devastating accuracy. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the operation as a critical step to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, accusing Tehran of covertly advancing its program. The timing, early Friday morning, caught Iran’s defenses off guard, amplifying the impact of the assault.
Devastation in the Capital
Tehran awoke to chaos as explosions lit up the night sky, with tremors felt in residential areas like Ekbatan. The strikes damaged critical infrastructure, including power grids and communication networks, forcing Iran to suspend air traffic nationwide. Eyewitnesses reported plumes of smoke rising from military compounds, underscoring the severity of the attack.
Regional and Global Fallout
Iran’s leadership, led by President Ebrahim Raisi, vowed retaliation, labeling the strikes an “act of war.” Missile and drone attacks on Israel are anticipated, prompting heightened alerts in Jerusalem. The international community reacted with alarm; the U.S. clarified it had no role in the operation, while urging de-escalation. Oil prices spiked 10%, reflecting fears of disrupted supplies. The United Nations called for an emergency meeting to address the crisis.
In conclusion, Israel’s audacious assault on Tehran has reshaped the Middle East’s geopolitical landscape. The reported death of General Bagheri and the targeting of Iran’s nuclear sites signal a high-stakes confrontation, with the region bracing for Iran’s response and the risk of a wider war.
