In a move that challenges warnings from Donald Trump and potentially undermines nuclear negotiations with Tehran, israel launched a series of strikes in iran overnight. The targets included nuclear and military facilities, ballistic missile factories, and the residences of high-ranking officers.

The attacks have already caused a surge in oil prices and raised concerns about a potential third war front, following the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. This action also represents another setback for Donald Trump, notably after Vladimir putin’s recent actions.

Israeli Premier benjamin Netanyahu made the decision last Monday, informing the American president of his intentions and advising the evacuation of American personnel from the Middle East due to fears of Iranian retaliation. “We are in a decisive moment in the story of Israel,” said Netanyahu in a recorded video message.

“A few moments ago Israel has launched the Lion nascent operation,a military operation aimed at contrasting the Iranian threat to Israel’s survival. This operation will continue for every day necessary to remove this threat,” he added,suggesting that the offensive to neutralize iran’s nuclear program coudl be prolonged. The International Atomic Energy Agency (Aiea) had recently censured Iran for non-compliance with investigations into its nuclear activities.

Explosions were reported by Iranian media and witnesses, including at the uranium enrichment facility in Natanz. Israel has declared a state of emergency in anticipation of missile attacks and drone retaliation. iranian state television reported the deaths of Hossein Salami, head of the revolutionary guards, and Mohamamd Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Army. The islamic State claimed that several children were killed in an attack on a residential area in the capital.

Ali Shamkhani, a political advisor to leader Ali Khamenei, was seriously injured.Israel’s targets included Iranian scientists suspected of working on a nuclear bomb, Tehran’s ballistic missile program, and the uranium enrichment system in Natanz. According to Tel Aviv, Iran possessed enough material to create 15 nuclear bombs within days. In addition to air strikes, the Mossad, Israel’s espionage agency, reportedly conducted covert sabotage operations within Iran, targeting strategic missile sites and air defense capabilities, according to Axios. Both Israel and Iran have closed their airspace.

The Islamic Republic has announced a severe response, accusing the US of direct involvement. “The Zionist regime has caused a bitter and painful destiny and will surely suffer it,” said Khamenei, promising that Israel “will suffer a tough punishment”.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that “israel has undertaken unilateral action against Iran” and that the US “are not involved”. “israel has informed us to believe that this action is necessary for their self -defense. President Trump and the Management have adopted all the necessary measures to protect our strength and remain in close contact with our regional partners”, he added, warning Iran not to “target interests or American staff”.

Trump has convened a meeting of the National Security Council. He stated that an Israeli attack against Iran “could very well occur” but reiterated his hope for a peaceful resolution through ongoing negotiations.

“We are in a decisive moment in the story of israel.”