On June 13, 2025, Israel initiated “Operation Rising Lion,” a large-scale military offensive targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and military leadership. The operation involved over 200 Israeli fighter jets striking more than 100 sites, including the Natanz enrichment facility and the headquarters of the Revolutionary Guard. Key Iranian figures, such as Chief of Staff Gen. Mohammad Bagheri and Revolutionary Guard commander Gen. Hossein Salami, were reported killed. apnews.com+3theguardian.com+3theguardian.com+3theguardian.com+3apnews.com+3theguardian.com+3

In retaliation, Iran launched over 100 drones toward Israel, some of which traversed Iraqi and Jordanian airspace, prompting regional concern. The conflict disrupted international aviation, causing several airlines to cancel or reroute flights, and led to a surge in global oil prices by over 8%. theguardian.com+1apnews.com+1apnews.com+1thetimes.co.uk+1

The timing of the strikes, just days before scheduled US-Iran nuclear talks, drew criticism from U.S. lawmakers. President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. was uninvolved in the strikes, despite earlier deploying assets to intercept Iranian counterattacks. Prime Minister Netanyahu warned Israeli citizens to prepare for extended conflict, while Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei promised severe retribution.