Israel Launches Largest-Ever Airstrike on Iran, Killing Top Officials

In a dramatic escalation of Middle East tensions, Israel carried out its largest airstrike on Iran under the operation “Rising Lion.”

The attack, which unfolded in the early hours of Friday, targeted over 100 nuclear and military sites across Iran and involved some 200 Israeli fighter jets.

Among the casualties were top Iranian military leaders, including Gen. Mohammad Bagheri and Revolutionary Guard commander Hossein Salami, as well as key nuclear scientists.

The strike also hit the Natanz nuclear enrichment facility, sparking black smoke and visible damage. Explosions rocked Tehran, while Iran swiftly closed its airspace, and regional air travel was disrupted across Iraq and Jordan.

In response, Iran launched over 100 drones at Israel, most of which were intercepted. The assault came just days before planned U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations in Oman, now cast into doubt.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei vowed “severe punishment,” and global oil prices surged amid fears of wider war. Prime Minister Netanyahu defended the operation as essential for Israel’s national security.