Israeli Operation ‘Rising Lion’ Targets Iranian Military, Nuclear Sites
Israel launched “Rising Lion” strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites early June 13, claiming it was to stop Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Iran reported casualties; the U.S. denied involvement. Oil prices surged, and upcoming U.S.-Iran talks are now in doubt amid fears of regional escalation.
By Kamaran Aziz
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a major escalation in the Middle East, Israel launched airstrikes early Friday targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, military infrastructure, and senior personnel. The operation, dubbed “Rising Lion,” was described by Israeli officials as a preemptive strike to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
According to Reuters, explosions were reported in multiple locations across Iran, including near the Natanz uranium enrichment facility, one of the country's primary nuclear sites. Iranian state media also confirmed blasts in the capital, Tehran, and indicated that air defense systems were fully activated.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the offensive a “decisive moment” in Israeli history. In a video statement reported by Reuters, he said the operation was aimed at Iranian scientists involved in nuclear weapons development, missile factories, and command centers. He warned that the military campaign would continue for several days.
Moments ago, Israel launched Operation “Rising Lion”, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel's very survival.
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) June 13, 2025
This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat.
——
Statement by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: pic.twitter.com/XgUTy90g1S
A senior Iranian official told Reuters that the country's top security leadership was holding an emergency meeting to assess the situation. The official also said the strikes had resulted in casualties, though numbers remain unconfirmed.
In response to the Israeli operation, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a formal statement clarifying that the United States was not involved in the attacks. The statement, quoted by Reuters, emphasized Washington's commitment to protecting its personnel in the region.
“Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” Rubio said. He added, “Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel.”
According to Reuters, U.S. intelligence had previously assessed that Israel was preparing for such an operation. While President Donald Trump had acknowledged the possibility of Israeli military action during a press briefing on Thursday, he reiterated his preference for a peaceful resolution.
CNN also reported that President Trump convened an emergency cabinet meeting following the strikes. The Pentagon is reportedly preparing for various scenarios, including the potential evacuation of American citizens from the region, Reuters noted.
#BREAKING 🚨 U.S. President Donald Trump holds emergency meeting with his cabinet after Israel’s attacks on Iran. pic.twitter.com/8ODteAc5aH
— Kurdistan 24 English (@K24English) June 13, 2025
Oil markets reacted sharply to the developments. Reuters reported that crude oil prices surged by over $3 per barrel as news of the strikes spread, highlighting global concerns over energy security and regional instability.
The escalation comes just days before a planned sixth round of U.S.-Iran talks in Oman, intended to address Tehran’s advancing uranium enrichment program. However, Reuters indicated that those negotiations are now in jeopardy.
As the situation unfolds, the international community has urged all parties to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation. Kurdistan24 will continue to monitor developments and provide timely updates.
