Israel Kills Over 14 Iranian Nuclear Scientists, Senior Officers in Coordinated Strikes

Israel carried out a significant military operation targeting Iran's nuclear program, killing at least 29 high-ranking military officers and 14 top nuclear scientists, severely disrupting Iran's nuclear weapons development. The attacks, which included coordinated airstrikes and the use of bunker-busting bombs with U.S. support, were described by Israeli officials as a strategic blow intended to delay Iran’s nuclear capabilities by several years. The operation, dubbed 'Operation Narnia' by some sources and likened to the 'Red Wedding' from Game of Thrones, involved deception tactics by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and was part of a broader 12-day conflict involving missile exchanges before a US-brokered ceasefire. Iran has announced preparations to restart its nuclear program despite the losses, while the International Atomic Energy Agency is pushing for renewed cooperation with Iran to seek a diplomatic resolution. Analysts emphasize that, although the strikes have severely impaired Iran's nuclear expertise and command infrastructure, military action alone may not fully eliminate Iran's nuclear capabilities or expertise, highlighting the importance of diplomatic efforts. Casualties on both sides were substantial, with over 1,200 total deaths reported during the conflict, including hundreds of civilians and military personnel.