ISRAEL MEANS BUSINESS

BY SNN.BZ STAFF

On June 13, 2025, Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Tehran, the capital of Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, military bases, and key figures in Iran’s government and nuclear program. This event has raised global concerns about a potential wider conflict in the Middle East. For someone unfamiliar with the tensions between Israel and Iran, here’s a clear, balanced explanation of what happened, why it matters, and what might come next.

What Happened?

In the early hours of June 13, Israeli warplanes and drones struck over 100 targets across Iran, including:

Nuclear sites, such as Natanz, a major center for Iran’s uranium enrichment program.
Military bases and missile sites.
Residential areas housing military commanders and scientists.

The strikes killed several high-ranking Iranian officials, including:

Major General Hossein Salami, head of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Major General Mohammad Bagheri, chief of staff of Iran’s armed forces.
At least six nuclear scientists, including Mohammad Mehdi Tehranji and Fereydoun Abbasi.
Ali Shamkhani, a senior political advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Iranian state media reported at least 78 deaths and 329 injuries, though these numbers are unofficial and may change. Videos and photos showed smoke rising from damaged buildings in Tehran, with some residential areas heavily impacted.

Israel described the operation, called “Rising Lion,” as a “preemptive strike” to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the attacks were necessary to protect Israel’s existence and even suggested they could weaken Iran’s government. Iran called the strikes a “declaration of war” and vowed a “harsh response.” Iran launched about 100 drones toward Israel in retaliation, but Israel said all were intercepted.

Why Did This Happen?

Israel and Iran have been enemies for decades, largely due to:

Iran’s Nuclear Program: Israel believes Iran is secretly working to build nuclear weapons, which Iran denies, claiming its program is for peaceful energy purposes. Israel sees a nuclear-armed Iran as a direct threat to its safety.
Regional Rivalry: Both countries support opposing sides in conflicts across the Middle East, like in Syria and Lebanon. Iran backs groups like Hezbollah, which Israel considers terrorist organizations.
Past Tensions: Israel has previously targeted Iranian nuclear scientists and facilities, while Iran has supported attacks against Israel. This “shadow war” has now escalated into open conflict.

The timing is notable because U.S. President Donald Trump was pushing for a diplomatic deal to limit Iran’s nuclear program. Israel’s strikes, which happened without U.S. involvement, may complicate these talks. Some reports suggest Israel acted because it believed Iran was close to achieving nuclear weapon capabilities.

What’s the Global Reaction?

United States: The U.S. said it was not involved but emphasized its goal to protect American forces in the region. Trump urged Iran to negotiate a deal to avoid further Israeli attacks.
United Nations: The UN’s nuclear agency (IAEA) confirmed the Natanz strike but reported no immediate radiation leaks. The UN urged both sides to avoid further escalation.
Other Countries: Nations like Oman condemned Israel’s actions as a violation of international law. India expressed concern and issued travel advisories for its citizens in Iran and Israel.
Allies and Critics: Israeli opposition leaders supported the strikes, while Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei promised a “bitter and painful” response.

Why Does This Matter?

This conflict could have serious consequences:

Regional War Risk: If Iran retaliates strongly, it could draw in other countries or groups, like Hezbollah, leading to a broader Middle East conflict.
Nuclear Concerns: Damage to Iran’s nuclear sites raises questions about safety and whether Iran might accelerate its nuclear ambitions in response.
Global Impact: The Middle East is a key region for oil and trade. Conflict could disrupt energy supplies, affecting prices worldwide.
Civilian Lives: Both Iranian and Israeli civilians are at risk if the fighting continues, with reports of panic in Tehran and Israelis preparing for possible attacks.

What Might Happen Next?

Iran’s Response: Iran has promised retaliation, possibly through drones, missiles, or attacks via allied groups. However, its military capacity may be weakened by Israel’s strikes.
Israel’s Plans: Israeli officials suggested the attacks might continue, with more targets in mind.
Diplomacy: Efforts to restart nuclear talks between Iran and the U.S. are uncertain. Trump’s call for a deal may face challenges if tensions rise further.
International Efforts: The UN and other nations are calling for calm, but it’s unclear if they can prevent escalation.

The Bottom Line

Israel’s airstrikes on Tehran mark a bold move against Iran’s nuclear and military capabilities, driven by fears of a nuclear-armed Iran. Iran’s promised retaliation raises the stakes, and the world is watching to see if this leads to a wider war or a return to negotiations. Both sides have deep grievances, and civilians in both countries are bracing for what comes next. The situation remains fluid, with no easy resolution in sight.