Israel Strikes Iran’s Nuclear Sites—Here’s What the U.S. Said

Introduction

Israel’s daytime air offensive on June 13, 2025, against Iran marked a dramatic escalation in Middle Eastern tensions. With over 200 jets and Mossad operations, Israel struck around 100 sites, including top nuclear facilities and military leaders. Iran fired back with a swarm of drones, while the U.S. took a cautious stance—distancing itself publicly yet providing intelligence support behind the scenes.

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Main Sections

🔹 What Was Called “Operation Rising Lion”

• Unofficially dubbed as ‘Operation Rising Lion
• Named “Rising Lion,” the offensive aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
• Targets included Natanz, other nuclear sites, missile depots, and commanders’ homes.
• Israel claimed success in killing IRGC head Salami, Armed Forces chief Bagheri, and others

🔹 Iran’s Response

• Iran launched 100+ drones toward Israel, though most were shot down
• Tehran has vowed retaliatory measures, calling Israel’s move a declaration of war .

🔹 U.S. Position: Public Disavowal, Private Assistance

• Secretary Rubio insisted the U.S. did not partake in the attacks
• Yet intelligence sharing, prior notification, and contingency defense plans signal indirect involvement .
• President Trump praised the strike as “excellent” and warned of more if Iran doesn’t return to talks

🔹 Implications for U.S.-Iran Diplomacy

• Ongoing nuclear-related negotiations with Iran have been suspended temporarily time.com.
• U.S. lawmakers are split: Republicans largely support Israel, while some Democrats caution against escalation .

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Conclusion

Israel’s bold strike likely delays Iran’s nuclear ambitions, but it has also opened a dangerous path toward a wider regional conflict. The U.S. walks a tightrope—publicly disavowing the attack while quietly supporting Israel's security.

 

Despite Iran’s vow for retaliation, the death of key figures—like IRGC chief Hossein Salami and other senior military leaders—poses a real challenge for Tehran. Even if war escalates, Iran may struggle to organize and sustain a full-scale military response due to the loss of its top commanders.

 

The coming weeks will be critical. Will Iran escalate further, or will internal disarray stall its response? Either way, this could reshape power dynamics in the Middle East.

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/June_2025_Israeli_strikes_on_Iran

June 2025 Israeli strikes on Iran - Wikipedia

https://time.com/7293795/israel-strikes-iran-attack-what-to-know/

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