Israel concluded a series of airstrikes in Iran on Saturday, marking the end of a targeted operation aimed at military assets within the country, as reported by the Israeli military. According to a statement by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), this phase of attacks has officially concluded, and all planes involved in the mission safely returned to Israeli airspace.
The IDF emphasized that these strikes were highly strategic, focusing on what it described as “key military targets” within Iran.
The strikes, which took place in the early hours of Saturday morning, sparked significant concern over potential escalations in the already tense Middle East region.
Reports from sources, including Reuters, indicate that the strikes might serve as a strong retaliatory measure following previous confrontations between the two nations.
While Israel has conducted limited operations against Iranian interests in the past, the scale and intensity of this attack are seen as a marked increase in hostilities between the two countries.
Eyewitness accounts from Tehran and the nearby city of Karaj describe at least seven large explosions echoing across the region shortly after 2:30 a.m. local time.
The explosions reportedly rattled residential areas and shook buildings, triggering widespread fear and speculation about the nature and scope of the operation.
Social media posts from witnesses show video footage of illuminated skies over Tehran, accompanied by the sounds of explosions.
The attacks have sparked international attention and concern, with analysts warning that such escalations could potentially lead to broader conflicts. Diplomatic channels across the Middle East and beyond are on high alert, with calls for restraint from neighboring countries.
This high-stakes move by Israel is likely to have lasting repercussions, with some experts cautioning that it could lead to further military exchanges between Israel and Iran, drawing in additional regional powers.
The IDF has yet to release detailed information on the specific military targets hit or the full extent of the operation’s success. Nonetheless, the strikes mark one of the most direct confrontations between Israel and Iran in recent years, heightening concerns over the possibility of a broader regional war.
