On Friday morning, Israel’s Air Force carried out a targeted airstrike on Iran, hitting the Natanz nuclear enrichment site—one of Iran’s most critical and closely guarded facilities. The Israeli military confirmed the attack, stating it was a preemptive move against an imminent threat.
Top Iranian Military Officials Targeted
In addition to the nuclear site, Israeli forces reportedly targeted key Iranian military figures. Unconfirmed reports suggest that several top commanders may have been killed in the operation, prompting Tehran to assess the full extent of the damage.
Iran Vows Harsh Retaliation
A senior Iranian defense official told Reuters that Iran’s response will be severe and decisive. High-level discussions are currently underway within Tehran’s security apparatus to finalize a retaliatory strategy. Given the damage inflicted, experts believe that some form of counterattack is now inevitable.
Iran Weighs Its Military Options
According to the Jerusalem Post, Iran is evaluating several potential responses. These include launching direct missile or drone strikes, engaging in naval actions, intensifying proxy warfare, or applying diplomatic pressure on Israel and its allies.
Proxy Warfare: A Long-Standing Iranian Tool
Iran-backed groups such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and Shiite militias in Iraq are considered key assets in any retaliatory move. While many of these groups have weakened over time due to regional conflicts, they remain operational and capable of inflicting serious damage.
Long-Range Threat: Missiles and Drones
Iran’s most formidable advantage lies in its expanding arsenal of ballistic missiles and long-range drones. Over the past few years, Tehran has significantly enhanced these capabilities, posing a direct threat to Israeli territory.
Naval Strikes Could Disrupt Global Trade
Iran also holds the option of targeting commercial or military vessels in the Persian Gulf or Gulf of Oman. Its IRGC Navy is known for aggressive maneuvers and could deploy sea drones or launch surprise maritime assaults.
Global Targeting Strategy
Another likely scenario is Iran’s use of intelligence networks and allied cells to strike Israeli targets abroad. Past plots have surfaced in Turkey, Cyprus, and various European and Latin American nations, indicating a widespread covert reach.
U.S. Keeps Distance Amid Rising Tensions
Despite previous threats from Iran to hit U.S. bases in the region, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the United States had no involvement in the Israeli airstrikes. Washington is reportedly monitoring the situation closely but intends to remain on the sidelines for now.
Read More: Iran’s Nuclear Scientists Targeted, Army Chief Reportedly Dead in Israeli Strike
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