Netanyahu Vows Indefinite Israeli Operations Targeting Iran

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the Israeli military has conducted several attacks targeting Iran's nuclear facilities and military locations in and around the country's capital, Tehran. In a video message uploaded on Friday morning, Netanyahu said the attacks were aimed at damaging Iran's nuclear infrastructure and ballistic missile factories.

"This operation will continue for as long as it is necessary until we complete our mission to counter the existential threat hanging over our heads," said Netanyahu, as quoted from Al Jazeera.

An unnamed Israeli military official said that Israel attacked dozens of nuclear and military targets on Friday morning. Iran's government news agency, Nour News, reported several "loud explosions" inside and around Iran's capital. It added that Iran's air defense system is on high alert, and all flights at Imam Khomeini International Airport have been suspended.

The Israeli military also confirmed to The Times of Israel newspaper that they have "launched an airstrike against Iran's nuclear program" in an operation dubbed "Nation of Lions." The source told the media that they need to counter an imminent threat posed by Iran.

Iran's state media, Press TV, confirmed that there were some casualties, without providing a number. An unnamed Israeli defense official said the attack likely killed senior Iranian military staff, including the chief of staff and some senior nuclear scientists.

In a statement, Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, described the attack as a preventive action. He said Israel is preparing for retaliatory action from Iran.

"A missile and drone attack against the State of Israel and its civilian population is expected in the immediate future," Katz said.

Sirens sounded across Israel to warn residents. The Israeli military announced on X that civilian and public security guidelines have been elevated to a state of heightened alertness starting at 3 a.m. local time.

"The guidelines include: a ban on educational activities, gatherings, and workplaces, except for essential businesses," it said.

Israel's Ministry of Transportation confirmed that they have closed the country's airspace for arrivals and departures until further notice.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed on Thursday night that the U.S. was not involved in the attack. He urged Iran not to target U.S. interests or personnel in the region.

"Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran, and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region," Rubio said in a statement. "Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel," he said.

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