Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei confirmed a major blow to the nation’s military on Friday. He said Israeli airstrikes on Tehran had “martyred” several commanders and scientists. Moreover, he warned, “Israel will not go unpunished for its attacks.”
Salami and Rashid Among the Dead
Soon after, Iran’s state TV confirmed the deaths of two top Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) leaders. It stated, “The news of assassination and martyrdom of Gen. Hossein Salami was confirmed.” Additionally, it said, “The martyrdom of... Major General Gholam Ali Rashid is confirmed.”
These officials held powerful roles in Iran’s military leadership. Their deaths mark one of the most significant losses in recent times.
Khamenei’s Adviser Critically Injured
Meanwhile, Iran’s Nournews reported that Ali Shamkhani, a senior adviser to Khamenei, was seriously injured in the attacks. The report described his condition as “critically injured.” Shamkhani is a rear admiral and former national security chief.
Nuclear Scientists Also Killed
Furthermore, Iranian media reported the deaths of two key nuclear scientists. They were Fereydoun Abbasi-Davani and Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi. Both had played important roles in advancing Iran’s nuclear technology.
Civilian Casualties in Residential Strike
In addition to the military targets, Israeli strikes also hit residential areas in Tehran. As a result, several children reportedly died. This sparked public anger and calls for immediate retaliation.
Explosions Reported at Natanz Facility
At the same time, witnesses and Iranian media confirmed blasts near the Natanz nuclear site. This is Iran’s main uranium enrichment facility. Although Iran admitted damage, it claimed “most of the damage is on the surface level,” and said there were “no casualties” at the facility.
Netanyahu Justifies Operation
Later, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a video statement. In it, he said, “We are at a decisive moment in Israel’s history.” He explained that the mission targeted Iranian scientists, missile sites, and the Natanz plant.
He added, “This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat.”
Israel Targets Dozens of Strategic Sites
Additionally, an Israeli military official said their forces struck “dozens” of nuclear and military sites across Iran. This included Natanz and other key locations. He warned that Iran had enough enriched uranium to build 15 nuclear bombs in a matter of days.
Mossad Leads Secret Sabotage Operations
According to Axios, Israel’s intelligence agency Mossad also carried out covert missions inside Iran. These operations aimed to destroy missile bases and air defense systems. A senior Israeli official confirmed this information.
Israel Prepares for Iranian Retaliation
Consequently, Israel closed Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport. Its military placed air defense systems on high alert. Defense Minister Israel Katz warned, “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.”