Tehran: Strike Intensifies — Israeli Operation Targets IRGC Commanders

Unprecedented Escalation Amid International Ambiguity and Warnings of Regional Fallout After Strikes on Tehran

In a rapid and urgent development, Israeli military sources confirmed that the Israeli Air Force carried out precision strikes in a district housing senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commanders in Tehran, as part of an operation dubbed “Lion’s Force.” The Israeli military radio announced that Israel’s airspace has been closed until further notice concurrent with the launch of the operation.

Iranian Jets Mobilize…Washington Distances Itself

The New York Times quoted an Iranian official saying Tehran “is under attack,” confirming that Iranian fighter jets scrambled to respond. Two U.S. officials told Al Jazeera that Washington was notified in advance of the strikes but did not participate or provide direct military support, a stance also reported by Reuters citing informed sources.

Operation Targets Iran’s Nuclear Infrastructure

Channel 12 reported that the primary objective was “eliminating the Iranian nuclear threat,” while the Jerusalem Post indicated Israel had tracked Iran nearing a “nuclear breakthrough within days.” The Israeli military spokesperson stated the operation struck dozens of military targets across Iran, and Israel Hayom confirmed it included attempts to neutralize senior IRGC officials in Tehran.

Air Traffic Paralysis and Emergency Diversions

The Imam Khomeini International Airport’s public affairs office announced the suspension of all flights. Channel 12 noted that Israeli civilian aircraft were diverted to Larnaca, Cyprus, while an Iraqi government source said Iraq closed its airspace entirely.

Israel Mobilizes Home Front

The Israeli Home Front Command declared a state of alert, instructing residents to stay near bomb shelters and fortified locations amid fears of Iranian retaliation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the operation as “unprecedented,” emphasizing its aim to “strike Iran’s nuclear facilities.”

International Reaction and White House Moves

CNN reported that President Trump convened a cabinet meeting concurrent with the strikes. Two sources told the New York Times that the meeting had been scheduled in advance, though senior aides were briefed on the possibility of the operation. Senator Lindsey Graham commented: “The game has begun, and we pray for Israel.”

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