Israeli Military Operation “Like a Lion”: Key Details and Developments

Overview of the Operation

In the early hours of the morning at 2:59 AM, unusual alerts from the Home Front Command indicated preparation for a significant threat, leading to the announcement that Israel had launched an unprecedented military operation against Iran, termed “Like a Lion.” This initiative reportedly targeted multiple strategic sites within Iran, resulting in the death of numerous Iranian military leaders.

Casualties Among Iranian Leadership

Israeli sources confirmed the elimination of dozens of senior Iranian officials. Among those acknowledged by Iranian authorities as killed were:

• Hosseini Salami, Commander of the Revolutionary Guards
• Mohammad Baqari, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces
• Roulm Ali Rashid, Deputy Chief of Staff
• Senior nuclear scientists Fereydoun Abbasi and Abdolhamid Minouchahr
• Mohammad Mahdi Tehranchi, President of the Islamic Azad University.

Following these developments, Iran has appointed new commanders to replace the fallen officials.

Tactical Execution of the Operation

The Israeli Air Force, utilizing over 200 fighter jets and precise intelligence from the military’s intelligence division, attacked more than 100 targets throughout Iran. These included the locations of high-ranking military officials and facilities crucial to Iran’s missile program and air defense systems.

Initial Strike

The operation commenced with the suppression of air defense systems situated in northern Iran and parts of Iraq. Many of the air strikes were carried out via routes through Syria, which had previously posed significant risks.

Specific Targets

According to reports from the New York Times, Israel targeted six military bases in the Tehran area, including the Parchin base and residences within heavily secured complexes housing military leaders. Additional strikes were reported in areas including Tabriz and Arak, where significant materials linked to heavy water reactors are located.

Covert Operations

In conjunction with the aerial strikes, the Israeli intelligence agency, Mossad, conducted a series of covert operations within Iran, aimed specifically at disrupting strategic missile capabilities and air defense structures.

Iranian Response

In the wake of the strikes, Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei declared a state of “war readiness.” He condemned the attacks, emphasizing they exposed the “dirty nature” of the Israeli regime, which he asserted would face severe consequences.

Iran initially claimed that Baqari was “at a command center,” but later acknowledged his death, among several other high-profile casualties. Following the assault, the Iranian military launched 100 drstarts in retaliation, prompting assurances from Israeli officials regarding defensive measures.

U.S. Position on the Conflict

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and President Donald Trump both confirmed that the United States had no involvement in the Israeli operation. Trump expressed support for Israel, emphasizing America’s commitment to its ally’s defense while hoping for a return to diplomatic negotiations with Iran.

Conclusion

The operation “Like a Lion” marks a significant escalation in regional tensions, reflecting ongoing conflicts between Israel and Iran over nuclear capabilities and military influence. The situation remains dynamic, with potential repercussions for stability in the broader Middle East