The Israeli Air Force launched dozens of airstrikes inside Iran on Thursday, according to two sources familiar with the matter, Axios reported moments ago. While the exact target remains unclear, local media in Iran reported explosions in Tehran.
This marks a significant escalation, as Israel targets a well-armed rival without direct support from the United States. Former President Donald Trump publicly opposed the strike, stating on Thursday that he still believed a nuclear deal with Iran was possible. It remains uncertain whether Israel’s attack was aimed at Iran’s nuclear program or if Trump was opposing this specific military action.
The strike could signal the beginning of a broader conflict, putting both countries at serious risk.
Emergency Measures Declared in Israel
As sirens rang across Israel late Thursday, Defense Minister Israel Katz declared a nationwide state of emergency. In a statement, Katz warned that Iran was expected to respond with missile and drone attacks targeting civilians.
Starting Friday morning, Israel imposed restrictions on daily life. The Israel Defense Forces ordered a halt to public gatherings, school activities, and most workplaces, allowing only essential services to continue.
US Distances Itself from Attack
Behind closed doors, the United States reportedly informed some allies about the impending Israeli strike and clarified that it was not involved. Axios noted that the Trump administration had already communicated to Israel that it would not take part in any attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites.
However, the US has previously supported Israel in defending against Iranian retaliation and may do so again if tensions escalate.
Before the operation was made public, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee posted on social media that he was staying overnight at the embassy in Jerusalem, asking followers to “pray for the peace of Jerusalem.”
Details of the Israeli operation remain limited. Israel had reportedly been planning a potential strike on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure for weeks but was waiting for the outcome of diplomatic talks. A new round of negotiations between the US and Iran had been scheduled for Sunday, though it’s unclear whether those will proceed.
US Prepares for Regional Fallout
Iran has threatened to hit US targets in response to any action against its nuclear program. The US has started withdrawing diplomats and military families from Iraq, Bahrain, and Kuwait, and has strengthened air defenses at bases in the Gulf.
Even if Iran’s nuclear facilities were not hit, any Israeli action could trigger retaliation that pulls the US deeper into the conflict.
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