Did Iran's Key Nuclear Facilities Suffer Major Damage in a 12-Day Operation?

Tel Aviv, June 27 (NationPress) - The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Friday that a recent military operation lasting 12 days inflicted considerable harm on three of Iran's principal nuclear sites: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. This action represents a significant setback for the Iranian regime's nuclear capabilities.

The IDF stated that 'Operation Rising Lion' was initiated on June 13 with the objective of disrupting Iran's nuclear and missile initiatives, following the detection of advancements in these programs, which are perceived as threats aimed at the destruction of Israel.

As part of the operation, the IDF eliminated 11 high-ranking nuclear scientists pivotal to Iran's weapons development and targeted the inactive reactor at Arak to hinder any future utilization.

“The core elements of the missile production sector were targeted. Over 35 sites were struck, resulting in the total destruction of 200 launchers, equating to 50% of the Iranian regime's capabilities. In total, more than 1,500 components, 15 enemy aircraft, over 90 targets, 80 surface-to-air missile launchers, and 6 airfields were engaged. Hundreds of Iranian military personnel were neutralized, along with numerous commanders and over 30 senior officials from the Iranian security apparatus,” the IDF reported.

The IDF emphasized that throughout the operation, they achieved substantial success and established complete aerial freedom over Iranian territory, accomplishing all defined objectives.

“High-quality intelligence and operational prowess were crucial throughout the operation. The defense systems were active continuously alongside the offensive measures,” stated the IDF.

Additionally, the Israeli military highlighted that to maintain air superiority, the Israeli Air Force executed 1,500 sorties, including around 600 in-flight refueling missions to reach Iran.

“During the operation, 1,400 airstrikes were conducted by fighter jets, with an additional 500 strikes from UAVs. The farthest strike was executed at Mashhad airport, approximately 2,400 km from Israel. Furthermore, hundreds of anti-aircraft missiles and drones were intercepted, achieving a 99% interception rate of drones launched from Iran,” the IDF added.

During the 12-day operation, the Home Front Command and rescue teams were deployed across more than 170 locations throughout the country.

Earlier this week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed acceptance of a ceasefire proposal from Iran, concluding 12 days of intense conflict between the two nations.

In a statement from the Prime Minister's Office, Netanyahu proclaimed that Israel had successfully met all strategic objectives of 'Operation Rising Lion' and exceeded expectations.

“Israel achieved all the goals of Operation Rising Lion, surpassing initial expectations. We have eliminated a dual existential threat in both the nuclear and ballistic missile arenas,” the statement concluded.