In the early hours of June 13, 2025, Israel launched a large-scale airstrike campaign - Operation Rising Lion - targeting over 100 Iranian sites, including nuclear facilities at Natanz and key missile installations . Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described it as the beginning of a prolonged operation aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring an atomic weapon, warning that airstrikes would continue "for as many days as it takes".

Israel claims its decision was fueled by intelligence showing Iran had enriched enough uranium for up to nine bombs, with breaches noted by the IAEA and U.N. monitors . Government insiders say this was a rare "window of opportunity" - Iran's defenses were weakened after recent Israeli operations, and regional proxies had been diminished, making timing crucial for maximum impact .

Although the U.S. denied involvement, President Trump praised the action and reiterated his push for renewed diplomacy with Tehran . The strikes killed top Iranian military leaders, including IRGC head Hossein Salami, drawing quick drone retaliations from Iran and prompting global concern over a wider regional escalation