Israel conducted “preventive” strikes on Saturday in Tehran, targeting various locations including those near Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s offices. The operation, named ‘Shield of Judah’ by the Israeli Defence Ministry, aimed to eliminate threats to Israel. Air raid sirens were activated across Israel amid concerns of potential retaliatory missile attacks from Iran, prompting authorities to advise citizens to stay vigilant as the military braced for possible incoming strikes.
An unnamed security source revealed that the operation had been meticulously planned for months and emphasized that Israel is fully committed to the campaign, with the United States in alignment. The joint attack’s “initial phase” is anticipated to span four days, as reported by The Times of Israel. The strikes were strategically timed during morning hours to surprise Tehran, catching the city off guard with a daytime assault.
While Iranian authorities have not yet confirmed the extent of the damage near Ayatollah Khamenei’s offices, this event signifies a significant escalation in the already tense relations between the two regional adversaries. These strikes occur amidst strained diplomatic relations between Washington and Tehran, with US President Donald Trump expressing dissatisfaction with the progress of negotiations and reiterating opposition to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
President Trump’s recent remarks, including his assertion that Iran must not possess nuclear weapons or engage in uranium enrichment activities, have underscored a more assertive stance towards Iran. The situation remains dynamic, with both regional and global observers closely monitoring for potential retaliatory actions and further escalation.
