Netanyahu: Israel Struck 'Heart of Iran's Nuclear Program'; IRGC Commander Salami Killed

By Kamaran Aziz

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed that Israel carried out precision strikes targeting what he described as the "heart of Iran's military nuclear program," adding that the military operation would “continue as many days as it takes,” according to Le Monde.

In the early hours of Friday, June 12, powerful explosions echoed across the Iranian capital, Tehran, as Israel launched a coordinated aerial assault on military and nuclear infrastructure. Netanyahu stated that the strikes specifically targeted senior officials leading Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs, as well as critical nuclear and military sites.

Among those confirmed killed in the strikes is General Hossein Salami, commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Iranian state television confirmed Salami’s death, declaring him a "martyr" in a broadcast statement. His death marks a major blow to Iran’s military leadership.

Following the blasts, Iranian air defense systems were reportedly activated at full capacity. State media outlets initially reported uncertainty over the nature of the explosions, but later confirmed multiple casualties, including civilians. "A number of people including women and children were martyred in a residential complex in Tehran," Iranian media reported.

The strikes come amid soaring tensions over Iran’s advancing nuclear capabilities and sustained threats against Israel from Tehran and its regional proxies.

Iran’s armed forces have vowed a “strong response” to the Israeli attack, raising fears of a wider regional conflict. Observers note that the scale and intensity of Israel’s operation suggest a deliberate shift in strategy aimed at degrading Iran’s military infrastructure and deterring future hostilities.

As the region braces for possible Iranian retaliation, international calls for restraint continue to mount.