ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Tensions in the Middle East surged on Friday after Iran launched a large-scale drone offensive against Israel in response to deadly Israeli airstrikes that killed several high-ranking Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists.
According to international media, Iran deployed more than 100 drones aimed at various locations across Israeli territory. Israeli defense forces reported intercepting the majority of the incoming drones using advanced air defense systems.
As a precautionary measure, Israel activated emergency underground facilities in hospitals, while operations at Ben Gurion Airport were suspended indefinitely amid fears of further escalation.
Israeli Airstrikes Trigger Iranian Response
Earlier in the week, Israel launched an expansive air assault targeting Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure. The operation reportedly involved 200 fighter jets and hit more than 100 sites across key cities including Tehran, Isfahan, Natanz, Arak, Kermanshah, and Tabriz. According to Arab media, the strikes occurred in five coordinated waves and affected both military installations and civilian infrastructure.
Among the prominent figures killed in the strikes were:
* *Major General Mohammad Bagheri*, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces
* *Major General Hossein Salami*, Commander-in-Chief of the IRGC
* *Major General Gholamali Rashid*, head of the Khatam al-Anbia Headquarters
Two prominent nuclear scientists — *Dr. Mohammad Mahdi Tehranchi* and *Dr. Fereydoon Abbasi* — also died in the strikes. The attacks sparked immediate concerns about the safety of Iran’s nuclear program. However, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) later confirmed that radiation levels remained within normal limits at the affected nuclear sites.
Iranian Officials Vow Retaliation
Following the loss of senior military leadership, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei appointed *General Ahmad Vahidi* as the new head of the IRGC and named *Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari* as interim Chief of Staff.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi condemned the Israeli operation, calling it a “clear violation of the UN Charter.” He asserted that Iran holds the right to a proportional response, stating, “Iran’s armed forces will not hesitate to show full strength.”
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) released a separate statement pledging firm retaliation: “Despite the Zionist regime’s brutal crime, we are confident in the dignity and resistance of the Iranian nation. We stand ready to deliver a decisive response.”
Global Reactions and Fears of Wider Conflict
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern over the targeting of nuclear sites, warning, “The region is already too fragile for another war.” He urged both nations to show restraint and return to dialogue.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed in a televised interview that Washington was aware of the Israeli operation in advance. While he denied direct involvement, he reiterated American support for Israel, saying, “We will not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons. However, we do hope Iran returns to the negotiating table.”
In Israel, military officials said they are preparing for the possibility of continued Iranian attacks and warned of a strong response. “The coming hours will be tough,” an Israeli military spokesperson stated. “Any further aggression will be met with hundreds of ballistic missiles.”
The latest developments mark one of the most dangerous flashpoints in recent Middle Eastern history, raising fears of a broader conflict that could draw in regional and global powers. Both sides remain on high alert, with international observers calling for urgent de-escalation to prevent further bloodshed.
