Current Updates on Israel's Attack on Iran
US officials have verified that Israel conducted military operations against Iran, with prior warning given to the Biden administration. The warning, issued on Thursday, indicated an impending strike within the next 24 to 48 hours. CNN reported assurances from Israeli sources that the attack would not target Iran's nuclear facilities.
Iranian state media reported activation of air defense systems following reports of explosions near a major airbase close to Isfahan. However, Iranian authorities downplayed the extent of the attack, with a senior commander stating on state TV that there was no damage in Isfahan.
Isfahan holds significance for Iran's nuclear program, housing sites like the Natanz enrichment facility. State television affirmed the safety of all sites in the area.
The airbase near Isfahan has historically housed Iran's fleet of American-made F-14 Tomcats, procured before the 1979 Islamic revolution.
Flight tracking website FlightRadar24 reported closures of airports in Tehran, Shiraz, and Isfahan, with flights cleared from the western half of Iran. Restrictions were gradually lifted by local authorities, with FlyDubai canceling flights to Iran's capital on Friday.
Tensions persist in the region after Iran's unprecedented direct attack on Israel on Saturday, involving hundreds of drones and cruise missiles. This retaliation followed the April 1 strike on an Iranian diplomatic building in Damascus, which resulted in casualties including a senior figure in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards.
Iran’s foreign minister warned of immediate response if Israel retaliates, emphasizing the gravity of potential consequences for Israel.
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Israel has drawn up plans to attack Iran, an Israeli military spokesman has suggested.