Israel strikes Iran in major air operation, escalating regional conflict

Israel launched a series of airstrikes on military targets in Iran using its advanced fighter jets and missile systems, marking an escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two nations. The strikes, named Operation Days of Repentance, came after Iran fired nearly 200 ballistic missiles at Israel in response to the deaths of senior leaders of Hezbollah and Hamas.

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The Israeli military carried out three waves of strikes, deploying F-35 Adir fifth-generation fighters, F-15I Ra'am, and F-16I Sufa jets, which traveled about 2,000 kilometers to execute the mission. Equipped with the 'Rampage' supersonic missile and 'Rocks' next-generation air-to-surface missile, around 100 jets hit 20 military sites, including missile and drone facilities, while avoiding nuclear and oil targets to prevent further escalation.

The first wave targeted Iranian air defenses, followed by strikes on missile and drone sites. Iranian officials reported that their air defense systems intercepted some attacks over Tehran, Khuzestan, and Ilam provinces, noting only limited damage.

Amid the high tensions, Israeli and US defense systems remained on high alert for potential retaliation. Iran, along with neighboring Iraq, closed its airspace following the strikes, which had been delayed by weather conditions affecting Israel’s missile-guidance systems. The Middle East remains tense as both nations brace for further developments.