What Sparked the Confrontation?
On 13 June 2025, Israel launched a large-scale military operation—dubbed Operation Rising Lion—targeting Iranian nuclear sites, missile launchers, and IRGC command infrastructure inside Iran. Mossad reportedly smuggled explosive drones deep into Iran, disabling air defenses and missile systems, paving the way for Israeli jets to strike critical targets.
Iran’s Massive Retaliation
In response, Iran launched an unprecedented barrage:
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Over 400 ballistic missiles and 1,000 drones, targeting cities like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Ashdod
- Despite this, most attacks were intercepted—only ~20 missiles reached urban areas, and drone strikes caused minimal damage
- A significant incident occurred on 19 June, when a missile hit Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, causing injuries and halting hospital services
Military & Technological Elements
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Drone warfare: Iran deployed over 1,000 drones (mostly Shahed models); Israel’s Iron Dome, Arrow‑3, and integrated air defenses successfully thwarted most threats
- Mossad + IAF synergy: Israel’s covert drone sabotage significantly hampered Iran’s flow of missile launches, reducing what could’ve been 1,000+ launches to ~200 during the opening days
What Comes Next?
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Ceasefire fragility: Both nations have stopped short of a formal, durable peace. Continued strikes risk open conflict resurgence
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Deteriorating civilian context: Displaced communities and damaged infrastructure in both Israel and Iran will add prolonged internal stress.
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Regional escalation risk: Other actors—including Iran-backed proxies, global airspace corridors, and oil markets—remain deeply vulnerable to renewed clashes.
