Israel launched a major attack on Iran. The strikes killed Iran’s top three generals, according to Iranian state media, and targeted military bases and nuclear sites across the country. Tehran launched drones at Israel in response. Benjamin Netanyahu said the attacks on Iran would last “as many days as it takes.” Here’s what we know:
Targets: Israel described the strikes as a last resort to keep Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Its military said it struck Natanz, Iran’s main nuclear enrichment facility. Israel also killed top Iranian generals and scientists, including Mohammad Bagheri, the second-highest commander after the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Iran’s response: The Israeli Air Force began intercepting drones fired by Iran. Khamenei said Israel “should anticipate a harsh punishment. The strong hand of the Islamic Republic will not let them go.”
U.S. response: The Trump administration had been in nuclear talks with Iran. “I gave Iran chance after chance to make a deal,” Trump said on social media. He warned Tehran to make a deal “before there is nothing left.”
Scale: The Israeli military says 200 warplanes participated in the attack, dropping hundreds of bombs across the country and striking over 100 targets.
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