US, Israel Exchange Strikes Iran Nuclear Sites Amid Regional Tensions

The Israeli Air Force launched a large-scale attack on Iran, targeting nuclear and military sites, in an operation called "Rising Lion" aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, framed the strikes as a necessary response to Iran's violations of international agreements and its regional terror activities, urging global support for Israel. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that the U.S. was aware of the Israeli strikes beforehand but was not militarily involved, warning that the U.S. would defend itself and Israel if Iran retaliates. Senate leaders from both parties, including Chuck Schumer, Ted Cruz, and John Fetterman, expressed strong support for Israel's actions, emphasizing the need to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and backing Israel with military and intelligence support. Meanwhile, Middle Eastern countries like Oman and Qatar condemned the strikes as reckless escalations that destabilize regional peace, highlighting the complex international reaction. Iranian officials killed in the strikes include senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps leaders and nuclear scientists, intensifying tensions just before renewed U.S.-Iran nuclear talks.