INTERNATIONAL: Israel Strikes Iran’s Nuclear Sites, Escalates Decades-Long Feud
Israel’s airstrikes on June 13, 2025, targeted Iran’s suspected nuclear facilities and key figures, intensifying a decades-long rivalry rooted in ideological and strategic discord.
Operation Rising Lion Targets Iran
Israeli fighter jets launched “Operation Rising Lion,” striking Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and killing senior figures, including IRGC chief Hossein Salami and nuclear scientists Fereydoon Abbasi and Abdul Hamid Minouchehr. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the operation as a preemptive measure to counter Iran’s existential threat.
Roots of Hostility
The Iran-Israel conflict traces back to Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, which branded Israel and the U.S. as primary adversaries. Tensions escalated over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, with Israel accusing Tehran of pursuing nuclear weapons for over two decades.
Iran’s Nuclear Program Under Scrutiny
Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful, but the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has warned of sufficient uranium reserves for weapons production. Past IAEA reports suggest Iran ran a structured nuclear weapons program until 2003.
Weakened Axis of Resistance
Iran has supported anti-Israel groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and Houthis, forming the “Axis of Resistance.” Israel’s campaigns since Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack have significantly degraded these groups’ capabilities, emboldening Israel’s actions against Iran.
- Hamas’ Gaza infrastructure was decimated.
- Hezbollah’s Lebanese bases faced heavy Israeli strikes.
Strategic Timing of Strikes
Israel capitalized on Iran’s rejection of U.S. nuclear deal proposals and the diminished strength of its proxy network. The accumulation of Iran’s uranium reserves heightened Israel’s concerns about potential nuclear weapon development.
Iran’s Counterattacks
Iran responded with drone strikes, signaling a readiness to escalate. The tit-for-tat attacks have raised fears of a broader regional conflict, with no clear end in sight.
Global Economic Concerns
Analysts warn that the Iran-Israel tensions, combined with ongoing regional conflicts, could disrupt global energy markets and trade. The economic fallout remains a critical concern for international stakeholders.
Netanyahu’s Defiant Stance
Netanyahu vowed to continue Operation Rising Lion until Iran’s threat is neutralized, framing the strikes as essential for Israel’s survival. The operation has drawn mixed reactions, with some criticizing its escalatory nature.
IAEA’s Monitoring Role
The IAEA confirmed Natanz as a target but reported no radiation spikes, maintaining close oversight of Iran’s nuclear sites. The agency’s impartial assessments are vital amid heightened tensions.
Uncertain Path Ahead
The strikes have deepened the Iran-Israel rift, with potential ramifications for regional stability and global diplomacy. International efforts are underway to mitigate further escalation.