Israel strikes Iran’s nuclear sites, top brass killed; Tehran responds with 100 drones: Key developments so far

A building stands damaged in the aftermath of Israeli strikes, in Tehran, Iran on Friday. Majid Asgaripour/Wana News Agency/Reuters

In a dramatic and unprecedented escalation, Israel has launched a wide-ranging military offensive deep into Iranian territory, striking dozens of sites tied to Iran’s nuclear program and military leadership. The operation, dubbed Operation Rising Lion, targeted key facilities like the Natanz enrichment complex and reportedly killed several top Iranian officials IRGC chief Gen. Hossein Salami. In swift retaliation, former national security chief Ali Shamkhani and armed forces chief of staff Mohammad Bagheri.

Iran has launched more than 100 drones toward Israeli territory, marking one of the most serious flare-ups in the region in recent years and pushing both nations to the brink of open war. Israel remains on high alert, having declared a state of emergency and called up tens of thousands of reservists.

Israel strikes on Iran: Israel launched a sweeping military operation on Iran, targeting dozens of sites including nuclear infrastructure and ballistic missile bases, in what it calls Operation Rising Lion.

Nuclear, military leaders targeted: The assault reportedly focused on Iran’s top military brass and nuclear scientists.

US distances itself: Washington was aware of the impending strike but insists it had no involvement. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US was not part of the operation and is focused on protecting its forces.

Key Iranian commanders killed: Iranian state media confirm the deaths of IRGC chief Gen. Hossein Salami, former national security chief Ali Shamkhani, and armed forces chief of staff Mohammad Bagheri.

Natanz nuclear facility hit: Major explosions and fires were reported at Iran’s Natanz site, the country’s main uranium enrichment complex. IAEA has confirmed the site was struck and is monitoring radiation levels.

Israel on high alert: Israel has declared a state of emergency, shuttered schools and public gatherings, halted non-urgent hospital services, and called up tens of thousands of reservists in anticipation of Iranian retaliation.

Iran retaliates with drone barrage: Iran launched over 100 drones toward Israel, the IDF said Friday, calling the situation "unprecedented" and warning of “difficult hours ahead.”

Jordan issues warning: Jordan, which lies between Israel and Iraq, stated it will not allow its airspace to be used for conflict, calling its national security a “red line.”

Diplomatic fallout: Iran’s foreign ministry accused the US of enabling Israel’s aggression and called on the UN to condemn the strikes. It warned that Iran “will not hesitate to defend the nation.”

US issues shelter-in-place advisory: The US Embassy in Israel has ordered government personnel and their families to shelter in place. Americans in Israel have been urged to remain alert and know their nearest shelter locations.

Nuclear talks in jeopardy: Scheduled US-Iran nuclear negotiations in Oman this weekend are now uncertain amid the escalating hostilities.