Leadnaija
Israel has confirmed it carried out a large-scale, coordinated strike on Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure, codenamed Operation Rising Lion.
The operation, according to Israeli officials, was years in the making and involved a series of covert activities deep inside Iranian territory, including the smuggling of drones and precision weapons into the capital, Tehran.
Tehran, Iranian capital
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that over 200 aircraft took part in the assault, which began early Friday.
Around 330 munitions were dropped on approximately 100 pre-selected targets, which Israeli authorities described as “key assets” in Iran’s nuclear and ballistic weapons programs. Israeli officials labeled the operation as both “preemptive” and “precise,” citing an imminent threat from Iran’s growing capabilities.
Covert Weapons, Commandos, and Drones Inside Iran
Details shared with The Times of Israel and other outlets suggest an extensive, years-long intelligence effort led by Israel’s Mossad agency.
According to multiple security sources cited by the Associated Press, Mossad successfully smuggled explosive drones and strike systems into Iran. These assets were reportedly stored near high-value military targets, including missile launchers directed at Israel.
A secret drone base was allegedly established inside Iran, from which several drones were launched during the overnight strikes. Israeli operatives are also said to have infiltrated the country to place weapons and support systems close to Iranian air defense installations. These were activated in real-time during the strike, enhancing the operation’s effectiveness and disrupting Tehran’s ability to mount a counterattack.
“This relied on groundbreaking thinking, bold planning, and surgical execution by advanced technologies, special forces, and agents operating in the heart of Iran while evading the eyes of local intelligence,” one Israeli official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
U.S. Informed in Advance
Israeli officials confirmed that the United States was notified of the operation at least a week before its launch. While Washington has not publicly commented, coordination between the two allies has reportedly intensified following prior Iranian attacks on Israel in April and October 2024.
The scale and depth of the operation mark a new chapter in the long-standing shadow war between Israel and Iran. Analysts say the attack not only demonstrates Israel’s intelligence reach but also its willingness to take direct action inside Iranian territory to prevent what it sees as existential threats.
Iranian authorities have yet to issue a full response, though military units in Tehran and surrounding provinces have been placed on high alert.
