Israel Strikes Iran Nuclear Sites in Preemptive Attack

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu authorized a large-scale preemptive airstrike, 'Operation Rising Lion,' targeting Iran's nuclear facilities and top military commanders, citing existential threats reminiscent of the Holocaust. The assault involved around 200 warplanes and reportedly caused major damage to Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure. Hours before the attack, Netanyahu left a Torah verse at the Western Wall to signal the operation. Iran's leadership condemned the strike as a 'declaration of war' and threatened severe retaliation, though their initial drone response was reportedly intercepted by Israel. The UK government distanced itself from the operation and called for regional de-escalation. Analysts believe Netanyahu capitalized on perceived diminished U.S. influence to assert Israeli dominance at a strategically chosen moment.