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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-13 at 09:04
HEADLINES
1. Israel Launches Bold Attack on Iran’s Nuclear Sites
2. Netanyahu Warns Iran’s Nuclear Threat Is Existential
3. Global Powers React to Israel’s Escalating Middle East Crisis
The time is now 05:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
Israel has launched a comprehensive military operation aimed at neutralizing what it describes as an existential threat from Iran. According to Israeli high command, the operation, named "Rising Lion," began with precise targeted assassinations and strikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, including heavy damage to the Natanz nuclear facility. Israeli officials emphasized that this is not a limited tactical strike but a declaration of war, intended to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to eliminate threats posed by Iranian proxies and missile capabilities.
The operation was initiated following extensive intelligence assessments indicating Iran’s accelerated nuclear weapons development efforts. Israeli authorities revealed that Iran has enough fissile material to produce nine nuclear bombs and is working in secret to assemble a nuclear weapon, with enough enriched uranium for fifteen bombs within days. The strikes targeted Iran’s main enrichment sites, nuclear scientists involved in weaponization, and ballistic missile programs. The Israeli military also intercepted over 100 suicide drones launched by Iran in retaliation, which were later neutralized.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation, reaffirming Israel’s resolve to prevent a nuclear holocaust and emphasizing that the threats from Iran are an immediate and existential danger. He recalled the lessons of history, drawing parallels with the failures of appeasement before World War II, and underscored Israel's commitment to act decisively. Netanyahu stated that Israel’s military action is a necessary response to Iran’s blatant violations of nuclear agreements and its calls for Israel’s destruction.
The operation also included joint efforts by the Israeli Air Force and Mossad assets operating within Iran, which reportedly crippled Iran’s air defenses and missile capabilities. This large-scale attack involved over 200 fighter jets dropping more than 350 munitions across multiple strategic targets. Israeli officials highlighted that the operation aims to extend its reach to regional proxies, including Hezbollah and Hamas, which Iran arms and directs against Israel.
International reactions have been mixed. France’s foreign minister expressed support for Israel’s right to self-defense and reiterated concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Russian President Vladimir Putin voiced concern about the escalating conflict in the Middle East and condemned the Israeli strikes, while also indicating a desire for stability in the region. Meanwhile, Argentina’s president received the Genesis Prize in Jerusalem, acknowledging his support for Israel and proposing the promotion of diplomatic ties through initiatives similar to the Abraham Accords.
Within Israel, the military has issued alerts, urging civilians to prepare for possible widespread missile attacks and to seek shelter in protected spaces. The IDF Chief of Staff emphasized the gravity of the threat and the importance of national unity in facing the current crisis.
Iran’s response has included the firing of over 100 suicide drones, which Israel successfully intercepted. Iranian leadership has condemned Israel’s actions, with the Supreme Leader condemning the strikes and warning of retaliation. Iran’s military and security apparatus, including the Revolutionary Guard Corps and the regular army, remain on high alert amid fears of further Israeli and allied countermeasures.
The strategic landscape in the Middle East continues to shift rapidly. Israel’s decisive military actions reflect an urgent effort to prev
Published on 4 weeks ago