JERUSALEM/TEHRAN – June 6, 2025:
Tensions in the Middle East reached a boiling point on Friday after Israel launched a massive wave of airstrikes targeting Iranian military and nuclear facilities, triggering retaliatory drone attacks and a regional outcry.
Israel Targets Nuclear, Military Installations
Brigadier General Effie Defrin, spokesperson for the Israeli military, confirmed that Israeli fighter jets were still conducting operations against Iranian targets.
“Our pilots attacked and are still attacking military targets and targets related to the nuclear programme in various areas in Iran,” he told journalists.
According to Israeli sources, approximately 200 fighter jets carried out coordinated strikes on nearly 100 sites across Iran, including nuclear facilities and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) bases. Blasts were reported in Tehran, where thick smoke was seen near an IRGC installation. A key uranium enrichment site in Natanz, located in Isfahan province, was struck multiple times.
The UN nuclear watchdog (IAEA) confirmed that Natanz was among the targets and stated it was monitoring radiation levels while maintaining contact with Iranian authorities and its own personnel on the ground.
Casualties Reported, IRGC Leaders Killed
Iranian state media confirmed that two top Iranian military leaders — IRGC chief Hossein Salami and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri — were killed in the Israeli strikes.
Initial reports also indicated that 50 civilians, including women and children, were injured, and residential buildings were damaged.
Iran Retaliates with Drone Attack
In response, Iran launched a counteroffensive involving approximately 100 drones, aimed at Israeli territory.
Brigadier General Effie Defrin confirmed the attacks, stating: “Iran launched approximately 100 UAVs towards Israeli territory, which we are working to intercept.”
The full extent of damage or casualties from the Iranian drone response remains unconfirmed.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Vows Harsh Response
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, issued a stern warning to Israel, calling the attack a “satanic crime.”
“The Zionist regime has committed a crime in our dear country at dawn with its bloodstained hands,” he said.
“That regime should anticipate a severe punishment. The powerful arm of the Islamic Republic’s Armed Forces won’t let them go unpunished.”
Oman Condemns Israeli Strikes
Oman, which plays a key role in mediating nuclear talks between Iran and the U.S., called the Israeli attacks a “dangerous, reckless escalation”, warning of broader destabilization in the region.
In a strongly worded statement, Muscat said:
“Oman considers this act a flagrant violation of the UN Charter and international law. Such aggressive, persistent behaviour is unacceptable and further destabilises regional peace and security.”
The Sultanate also held Israel responsible for the escalation and urged the international community to intervene immediately to prevent further conflict.
Pakistan Reacts: “Anyone Can Be Next”
Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Emir Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman condemned Israel’s military action, warning that unchecked aggression from Tel Aviv poses a global threat.
“Israel is expanding the circle of its terrorism. If this is not stopped now, anyone could be next,” he said in a statement issued Friday.
