Escalation in Middle East – Top Iranian Generals Killed, Nuclear Site Damaged in Israeli Strikes

Tensions in the Middle East reached alarming levels as Israel launched its largest-ever military offensive against Iran early Saturday, targeting nuclear infrastructure and senior military leadership. The Israeli strikes, part of ‘Operation Rising Lion’, have reportedly killed over 78 people, including three top Iranian generals, and injured more than 320.

Among those killed are General Mohammad Bagheri, chief of Iran’s armed forces; General Hossein Salami, head of the Revolutionary Guard; and General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, commander of Iran’s missile program. Iran confirmed additional casualties, including General Gholamreza Mehrabi and General Mehdi Rabbani, in a subsequent round of strikes.

Iran acknowledged limited damage to its Fordo nuclear enrichment facility, though officials claimed key materials had already been moved. Israel’s strikes also hit Mehrabad Airport in Tehran, prompting further explosions near critical military installations.

In retaliation, Iran launched ‘Operation True Promise’, firing rockets that breached Israel’s Iron Dome, killing at least three civilians and injuring 34.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed continued operations, calling Iran’s regime a “murderous threat.” Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei warned of devastating consequences.

Amid the crisis, UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged restraint, while India and other global powers expressed deep concern. PM Narendra Modi held a phone conversation with Netanyahu, monitoring the situation closely.

Former US President Donald Trump stated the U.S. was not directly involved but aware of the developments, calling on Iran to return to nuclear negotiations.