On Friday, June 13, 2025, Iran launched a barrage of missiles targeting Israel, escalating a volatile conflict following Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and military leaders.
According to the Associated Press, air raid sirens blared across Israel, with explosions rocking Jerusalem and plumes of smoke rising over Tel Aviv.
The Israeli military reported dozens of missiles launched, ordering residents nationwide to seek shelter in bomb shelters. No immediate casualties were reported in Israel.
The Iranian assault, dubbed “Operation Severe Punishment,” was a direct response to Israel’s earlier attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites at Natanz, Fordo, and Isfahan, which killed top military commanders, including Revolutionary Guard chief Hossein Salami, and nuclear scientists.
Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Israel’s actions as a “blatant act of aggression” by the “Zionist regime,” accusing it of violating Iran’s sovereignty by targeting military and residential areas in Tehran and other cities.
The ministry reported casualties, including “patriotic servants” and civilians, though exact figures remain unconfirmed.
In a statement posted on X, Iran’s Foreign Ministry invoked Article 2(4) of the UN Charter, which prohibits the use of force against a state’s territorial integrity, labeling Israel’s strikes a breach of international law.
Citing Article 51, which affirms the right to self-defense, Iran asserted its “legitimate and legal right” to retaliate. The ministry vowed that Iran’s armed forces would defend the nation’s sovereignty “with full strength” and warned of “grave consequences” for Israel and its allies.
Iran urged the UN Security Council to act swiftly against Israel’s “threat to international peace” and called on the UN Secretary-General, Islamic nations, and the Non-Aligned Movement to condemn the aggression.
The ministry emphasized Iran’s status as a UN founding member, demanding collective action to counter Israel’s “reckless adventurism.”
Israel’s military, operating under “Operation Rising Lion,” described its earlier strikes as a preemptive effort to thwart Iran’s nuclear ambitions, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating the operation aimed to “roll back the Iranian threat.”
The Israeli Defense Forces reported intercepting most Iranian missiles with the Iron Dome system, though some caused damage in Tel Aviv.
The rapid escalation has heightened fears of a broader regional war. Global leaders, including India’s Ministry of External Affairs, expressed concern, urging restraint and diplomacy.
The UN Security Council convened to address the crisis, while oil prices surged 7.3% amid fears of disrupted supplies.
As tensions mount, both nations brace for potential further strikes, with the international community scrambling to prevent a full-scale conflict.