The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported an overnight operation in which more than 50 fighter jets carried out a series of strikes on Iranian facilities associated with the production of uranium enrichment centrifuges. The attack was part of Operation Rising Lion, which began on June 13 and was aimed at undermining Tehran’s nuclear capabilities. The IDF estimates that the current bank of targets, which includes nuclear facilities, ballistic missile systems and air defense systems, will be exhausted within a week. The strikes underscore Israel’s determination to neutralize strategic threats despite the growing escalation of the conflict that threatens regional stability.

According to The Jerusalem Post, the operation involved F-35 and F-16 fighter jets armed with precision-guided munitions, which hit factories near the cities of Kashan and Arak, where intelligence indicates components for centrifuges are manufactured. The sites play a key role in Iran’s nuclear program, enriching uranium to levels close to weapons grade, Reuters reports. Iranian media, including ISNA, confirmed explosions and fires in industrial areas, but said damage was “minimal” and that no civilian facilities were affected. However, satellite images released by private company Planet Labs show extensive destruction, including damaged production facilities and warehouses.

The conflict, which has entered its sixth phase, is characterized by high intensity. According to Al Arabiya, Iran has responded with attacks on Israeli cities, including Ashkelon and Netanya, using kamikaze drones and medium-range Sejjil missiles, which can carry warheads of up to 700 kg. Israeli air defense systems, such as David's Sling, intercept most targets, but individual hits cause destruction, writes Israel National News. Iranian Defense Minister Mohammad Reza Ashtari accused Israel of "violating all norms of international law" and promised an "asymmetric response," Press TV cites.