June 13, 2025, 6:10pm IST –
A dramatic escalation in Middle East tensions unfolded on Friday as Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Iranian territory, including the capital Tehran, resulting in at least 78 deaths and 329 injuries, according to Iran’s NourNews agency. The strikes, reportedly targeting both military and residential zones, have sent shockwaves across global capitals and prompted emergency responses from world leaders.
🇮🇱 Israeli Strikes Decapitate Iran's Military Leadership
Among the most significant developments was the confirmed death of Gen Amir Ali Hajizadeh, head of Iran's Revolutionary Guard missile program, following the Israeli strikes. Israeli sources also claimed responsibility for the deaths of Hossein Salami, commander of the elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and Gen. Mohammad Bagheri, chief of Iran’s armed forces.
An Israeli military spokesperson said the country must prepare for a "lengthy operation", indicating a broader strategic campaign may be underway.
🇮🇷 Iran Vows Retaliation, Denies Drone Strike Claims
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian responded swiftly, condemning the attack as a “foolish act” that will be met with a “legitimate and powerful response.” State media reported explosions in Hamedan, while rejecting Israeli claims that Tehran had launched drones toward Jerusalem.
The Iranian Ministry of Communications announced temporary nationwide internet restrictions, citing “security concerns” and promising to lift the curbs “once normalcy returns.”
Global Fallout: Diplomacy, Closures, and Airspace Lockdowns
The airstrikes triggered urgent diplomatic activity:
- Israel shut down all its embassies worldwide, halting consular services and advising its citizens to avoid visibly displaying Jewish or Israeli symbols abroad.
- Syria closed its airspace, anticipating further escalation.
- Turkey’s Pegasus Airlines suspended flights to Iran, Iraq, and Jordan through next week.
- The United Kingdom issued a travel advisory for Israel, warning of rapid escalation and potential missile threats.
- The Israeli Energy Ministry shut down the offshore Leviathan gas field, citing national security risks.
International Leaders Respond
The crisis has drawn sharp reactions from global leaders:
- French President Emmanuel Macron defended Israel’s “right to protect itself”, but also called for restraint.
- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz held consultations with Macron to coordinate a joint response.
- Turkish President Recep Tayyip ErdoÄŸan condemned Israel’s actions as “banditry” and warned they were threatening global stability.
- US President Donald Trump, speaking on Truth Social, revealed that he had issued a 60-day ultimatum to Iran two months ago to reach a new nuclear deal. With that deadline now expired, Trump described the Israeli strikes as “excellent” and hinted that Iran may have a “second chance.”
Hamas Stands by Iran, UN Nuclear Agency to Hold Emergency Meeting
In a show of solidarity, Hamas declared that Iran was “paying the price” for supporting Palestinian resistance in Gaza. The group reaffirmed its alliance with Tehran, calling for unity in the face of Israeli aggression.
Meanwhile, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will convene a special session of its board of governors, following Iran's request for an emergency meeting. This request has received support from Russia, China, and Venezuela.
A Region on Edge
With diplomatic tensions rising and military escalation underway, the situation in the Middle East remains fluid and highly volatile. The death of top Iranian commanders, the closure of Israeli diplomatic missions, and unprecedented international responses suggest the crisis may have long-term implications for regional stability, energy security, and global geopolitics.
Observers warn that unless swift diplomatic efforts are made, the world may be on the brink of a wider military confrontation.
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