Israel Strikes Iranian Military Command

Updated – 8:18pm: Israel has reported the death of General Hossein Salami, the leader of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard (IRGC), following an attack on Thursday.

According to local news, the strike targeted the IRGC’s headquarters.

Additionally, Israel suspects that military chief Mohammad Bagheli and other high-ranking officials, including top nuclear scientists, were also killed in what it termed its first strike against Iran.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz characterized the attack as a pivotal moment in the nation’s history.

“Missing this opportunity would risk Iran advancing its nuclear weapons program, threatening our existence,” Katz stated.

In anticipation of potential retaliation, Israel is mobilizing tens of thousands of soldiers.

“We’ve initiated this operation and there’s no turning back—waiting is no longer an option,” a statement read. “History has shown us that when faced with existential threats, we must respond aggressively.”

7:03pm: Following the attack dubbed as the “first strike,” Israel declared an emergency and braced for retaliation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation via television after the strike, stating:

“We launched Operation Raisinglion to counter Iran’s threats to our survival. This operation will persist for as long as necessary, as the leadership in Tehran has openly pursued Israel’s destruction for a decade.”

Netanyahu disclosed that targets included Iran’s pivotal nuclear enrichment facility in Natanz and key figures associated with Iran’s nuclear program.

Israeli military officials assert that Iran is accelerating efforts to secretly develop nuclear weapons.

Israel is braced for a significant response from Iran, likely more substantial than past encounters. In preparation, the country has suspended schools, social events, and “non-essential work.”

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the United States was not involved in the Israeli strike, which occurred Thursday evening in Pacific Time.

“Tonight, Israel acted unilaterally against Iran while we focus on protecting our troops in the region,” Rubio explained. “Israel believes this was necessary for its self-defense.”

Texas Senator Ted Cruz defended Israel’s actions, stating:

“Israel is defending itself, and we should unequivocally support them,” Cruz asserted during an interview.

This story is developing. Updates will follow.

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