Israel has launched air strikes on what it claims are “dozens” of military and nuclear facilities across Iran, following growing concerns over Tehran’s rapidly advancing nuclear enrichment programme. The strikes mark a sharp escalation in regional tensions, with both nations bracing for possible retaliation.
One strike set the headquarters of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard ablaze, state television reported on Friday. One other top Guard official, as well as two nuclear scientists, were also feared dead, the report stated, without going into further detail.
According to Iranian state media, flights were suspended at Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Airport, and explosions were heard across the capital.
An Israeli military official stated that Iran now possesses sufficient material to produce 15 nuclear bombs within days.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation, declaring the strikes were “a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival.” He added that the strikes would continue “for as many days as it takes to remove this threat.”
Defence Minister Israel Katz announced a nationwide state of emergency and confirmed that schools would be closed on Friday.
“Following the pre-emptive strike by the State of Israel against Iran, a missile and UAV [drone] attack against the State of Israel and its civilian population is expected in the immediate time frame,” he said.
The United States denied involvement in the operation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a stern warning: “Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel.”
Earlier in the day, former US President Donald Trump warned of a potential “massive conflict” after Iran confirmed it was expanding its nuclear enrichment programme — actions in violation of previous international agreements.
The UN nuclear watchdog had recently reported that Iran was not complying with restrictions intended to prevent the development of nuclear weapons. A sixth round of nuclear talks between US and Iranian officials had been planned in Oman for Sunday, but now appear unlikely to proceed.
Crude oil prices spiked by over US$3 per barrel following news of the Israeli strikes.
Australia’s Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, urged restraint from all sides, warning the escalation could “further destabilise a region that is already volatile.” She added: “We call on all parties to refrain from actions and rhetoric that would further exacerbate tensions.”
The government is monitoring the situation and advised Australians in the region to follow Smartraveller alerts. The current travel advice for Iran remains: Do Not Travel.
Source: ABC News
