Israel Strikes Nuclear Facility in Isfahan, Braces for Iran’s Retaliation

 Israel claims it hit the nuclear facility in Isfahan and is preparing for Iran's "response"

The Israeli military spokesman's live TV briefing on operations in Iran was abruptly interrupted because an Iranian attack on central Israel was underway.

 

Army anti-aircraft fire is seen after the Israeli strike in Tehran / Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS / File photo

The Israeli Air Force struck an Iranian nuclear facility near Isfahan in central Iran earlier today, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin said at a press conference.

Isfahan is on the list of Iranian nuclear facilities that Israel has confirmed have been targeted. There have also been reports of an attack on the Fordow nuclear power plant.

We will not allow Iran to move towards building a nuclear bomb. We will not allow the development of missiles that are intended to harm us," the IDF spokesman added.

"We cannot be complacent. We know the enemy's intentions to harm us and there will be more attempts of this kind. We still have challenges ahead," said Defrin.

Asked how long Israel's airspace would remain closed, Defrin replied: "We are in a continuous war and we are prepared for many days of campaigning."

The Israeli military spokesman's briefing on operations in Iran, which was broadcast live on television, was abruptly interrupted tonight because an Iranian attack on central Israel is underway.

Shortly before it was halted, the IDF warned citizens across the country to stay close to shelters, as there are reports that Iran is preparing to launch its counterattack with ballistic missiles.

A senior Israeli security official told Channel 12 that Israel has warned Iran that if it targets its populated cities with ballistic missiles, Israel will target Iranian regime leaders and state infrastructure, such as oil refineries.

"Targets intercepted" over Tehran

Air defenses intercepted "targets" in Tehran, local media reported tonight.

According to these sources, air defenses were activated in central Tehran where the residence of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the presidential office are located.

A little earlier, the Mehr News agency reported that a powerful explosion was heard in the city of Isfahan in central Iran.