Israel and US carry out pre-emptive strike on Iran
Israel and the US have conducted a pre-emptive military strike on Iran, according to Defence Minister Israel Katz, who described the action as necessary to eliminate immediate threats to Israel.
In a statement released on Saturday morning in Israel, Katz confirmed that Israeli forces had targeted Iran and declared a nationwide state of emergency under civil defence regulations. Air-raid sirens sounded across Israel as a precautionary measure, with the military preparing citizens for the likelihood of Iranian retaliation involving missiles or drones.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz with senior army officials at the Defense Ministry headquarters in Tel Aviv as Israel launched strikes on Iran on June 13, 2025. Photo by Ariel Hermoni, Defense Ministry/TPS-IL
The Home Front Command directed residents to remain near protected areas and to follow official instructions, though no immediate order was given to enter shelters. Authorities cited the risk of an imminent Iranian response aimed at Israeli civilian areas as the basis for the alert.
No casualties have been reported on either side so far, and Iranian authorities have not issued an official reaction as developments continue.
Footage just shared on X from Iran shows several explosions. Reports indicate that one of the sites attacked was near Iran’s supreme leader, Khamenei’s office.
The instruction urges residents to remain in proximity to a protected space. The IDF has clarified that this is an initiated alert designed to drill the public in preparation for the possibility of missile fire targeting Israeli territory. As of now, there is no requirement to enter protected spaces, and the public is advised to stay calm while following official guidance.
This marks the first direct military engagement between Israel and Iran since their 12-day conflict in June 2025, which featured Israeli and US attacks on Iranian nuclear and missile infrastructure, followed by Iranian missile strikes on Israel. A shaky ceasefire had prevailed since then, even as US-mediated nuclear discussions took place in Geneva.
Tensions had escalated in recent weeks amid a US military buildup in the region and statements from President Donald Trump warning of potential action if Iran refused a new nuclear agreement.
The strike follows stalled talks where the US pressed for major concessions on Iran’s nuclear program.
The situation remains highly volatile, with Israeli officials urging the public to stay vigilant and comply with Home Front Command guidance. International observers are monitoring closely for signs of Iranian counterstrikes or broader escalation.
