The Israeli army claimed on Monday that it has completed its "most extensive" offensive against Iran since the conflict began on June 13, marking a new and significant episode in the regional war.
The Israeli military spokesman, Effie Defrin, reported at a press conference that 50 fighter jets launched over 100 munitions against various military targets in Iranian territory, in an operation he described as "the broadest wave of attacks carried out by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Tehran," reported the agency EFE.
Among the targeted locations are the headquarters of the Basij —a paramilitary group associated with the Revolutionary Guard—, the general command of that organization, Evin prison, which houses numerous political prisoners, and the access roads to the Fordo nuclear facility.
The Israeli offensive comes after several days of bombings against military and nuclear facilities in Iran, such as Natanz and Isfahan, as well as the assassination of high-ranking officials from the Revolutionary Guard and scientists linked to the Iranian nuclear program.
Since the outset of the attacks, Israel has cited the advancements made by Tehran in ballistic missile development and its nuclear program as justification.
Iranian authorities have reported over 400 deaths due to the bombings, the majority being civilians, including at least 54 women and children.
In Israel, there have been 24 reported deaths, all civilians, as a result of the missiles launched by Iran in retaliation.
Additionally, amid this escalation, the United States directly engaged in the war by bombing the three main Iranian nuclear facilities —Natanz, Fordo, and Isfahan— early on Sunday morning.
The U.S. government justified its intervention as a measure to halt Iran's nuclear capability and prevent it from producing an atomic bomb.
Iran, in response, declared before the UN that its reaction will be determined by its armed forces, and warned that the U.S. attack will bring "lasting consequences".
Frequently Asked Questions about the Conflict between Israel and Iran
What was the main objective of the Israeli offensive against Iran?
The main objective of the Israeli offensive was to target military and nuclear facilities in Iran, including the Basij headquarters and the Fordo nuclear plant, to halt the progress of the Iranian nuclear program and its ballistic missile developments. Israeli forces launched more than 100 munitions using 50 fighter jets in one of the most extensive operations carried out against Tehran.
How has Iran responded to Israel's attacks?
Iran has responded with massive missile attacks against the capital of Israel, Tel Aviv, and other cities, in an attempt to retaliate for the Israeli bombings. These attacks have caused significant material damage and multiple injuries in Israel, while Iran has reported the deaths of over 400 people, mostly civilians, due to the Israeli bombings.
What has been the involvement of the United States in the conflict?
The United States has directly intervened in the conflict by bombing Iranian nuclear facilities such as Natanz, Fordo, and Isfahan. The U.S. government justified its intervention to curb Iran's nuclear capabilities and prevent it from developing an atomic bomb. Additionally, the U.S. has provided support to Israel in intercepting Iranian missiles.
What consequences could this escalation have in the regional conflict?
The escalation of the conflict could lead to a large-scale regional war in the Middle East, with global implications due to the impact on energy markets and regional stability. The intervention of powers such as the United States and Iran's ongoing response may intensify the crisis, increasing the risk of further death and destruction in the region.
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