As of June 13, 2025, Israel is engaged in significant military operations across the Middle East, notably targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and expanding its military presence in Syria. Here’s an overview of the latest developments:
Israel’s Military Actions
Operation Rising Lion: Strikes on Iran
- Date: June 13, 2025
- Targets: Nuclear facilities, military sites, and residences of senior commanders
- Outcome: Death of IRGC Chief Hossein Salami; explosions reported in Tehran
- Context: Israel launched a large-scale attack on Iran’s nuclear and military sites, citing Iran’s non-compliance with nuclear obligations. The operation, named “Rising Lion,” is the most significant Israeli assault on Iran since the Iran-Iraq War .
U.S. Response and Regional Tensions
- U.S. Actions: Evacuation of non-essential personnel from the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad; relocation of military families from neighboring countries
- Diplomatic Strain: President Trump expressed skepticism about nuclear negotiations with Iran, while Iran vowed to retaliate against U.S. assets if Israel’s actions are not condemned .
Israeli Attacks on Yemen
- Initiation: May 5, 2025
- Targets: Houthi-controlled areas, including Sanaa International Airport
- Casualties: Over 8 killed, 89+ injured
- Reason: Retaliation for a Houthi missile strike on Ben Gurion Airport
- Current Status: Ongoing Israeli airstrikes and naval operations against Houthi positions .
Israel’s Expansion in Syria
- Military Presence: Establishment of security zones and military outposts in southern Syria
- Objective: Prevent Syrian forces from operating within a 65km zone from the Israeli border
- Strategy: Construction of new security zones and engagement with local Druze communities to foster support .
Tensions with Hezbollah in Lebanon
- Recent Strikes: Israeli military launched attacks on Beirut’s southern suburbs
- Warning: Israel’s Defense Minister stated there will be “no calm in Beirut” unless Hezbollah is disarmed
- Impact: Forced evacuations and significant damage in affected areas .
Operation “Rising Lion” – Israel’s Strikes on Iran
- Launch Date: June 13, 2025
- Objective: To dismantle Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities, including the Natanz nuclear facility and key military leadership.
- Key Targets: Over 200 fighter jets participated in the operation, targeting nuclear sites and military infrastructure across Iran. High-profile casualties include IRGC Chief Hossein Salami and armed forces chief Mohammad Bagheri.
- Israeli Statement: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the operation would continue “as many days as it takes” to neutralize Iran’s nuclear threat.
- Iran’s Response: Iran has pledged severe retaliation, launching drones and preparing missile responses. The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed no radiation leak from the targeted facilities.
- International Reactions: The U.S. was pre-informed but denied involvement. President Trump convened a National Security Council meeting following the strikes. Global leaders, including from New Zealand and Australia, expressed alarm. Saudi Arabia condemned the attacks, warning of regional instability. Oil prices surged over 7% amid fears of disruption.
Israeli Attacks on Yemen – Escalation with the Houthis
- Recent Strikes: On May 5, 2025, Israel launched a series of airstrikes against the Houthi movement in Yemen, in response to a Houthi ballistic missile attack on Ben Gurion Airport the day before. Among the targets was Sanaa International Airport, which was bombed and destroyed along with several aircraft by the Israeli Air Force on May 6. The Israeli Navy joined the campaign later in June.
- Casualties: Over 8 killed, 89+ injured.
- Strategic Targets: Sanaa International Airport, Al Hudaydah Port, Ras Isa Port, Hizaz Power Station.
- Israeli Justification: The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the Hizaz power station served as a central source of energy for the Houthi regime’s military activities. The IDF emphasized Israel’s right to defend itself against Houthi attacks on its citizens and infrastructure.
Broader Implications
- Oil Prices: Surge of over 7% due to escalating regional conflicts.
- Air Travel: Disruptions in commercial flights navigating Iranian airspace.
- International Relations: Heightened diplomatic tensions between Israel, Iran, the U.S., and other global powers.
