IDF IAF currently striking in area of Tehran

IDF IAF currently striking in area of Tehran

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and Israeli Air Force (IAF) have escalated their operations against Iran, with the latest strikes extending their reach to the heart of Tehran. According to Israeli military officials, the most recent airstrikes constitute the farthest strikes ever conducted by the IAF, with a mission that reportedly knocked out an Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF) aerial refueling tanker at Mashhad Airport in northeast Iran. The tanker, either a Boeing KC-707 or KC-747, was struck more than 1,400 miles from Israel, marking a significant advancement in the operation's geographical scope [1].

The strikes are part of Operation Rising Lion, a campaign designed to destroy Iran’s nuclear capability and long-range weapons capacity. The IAF's mission to achieve air superiority throughout Iran has been bolstered by the destruction of critical aerial refueling assets. Aerial refueling capacity is crucial for the redeployment of IRIAF assets in the face of IAF attacks, making these strikes particularly strategic [1].

While the IRIAF has made minimal use of its combat aircraft so far, the aerial refueling tankers are considered vital for both defensive and transport roles. Keeping key regime figures and materials, especially those related to its nuclear program, from running is a primary objective for the IDF [1].

In response to these strikes, Iran has launched retaliatory missile and drone attacks on Israel. According to the IDF, at least 10 people were killed and more than 100 injured overnight. The latest wave of Iranian attacks began at 11 p.m., 2 a.m., and 2:55 a.m., with ballistic missiles and drones targeting various parts of Israel, including Jerusalem, Haifa, Bat Yam, and Rehovot [2].

Israeli airspace remained closed Sunday for a third consecutive day due to the ongoing security situation. The Israeli Air Force reported shooting down 20 drones launched from Iran in the past hour. The IDF has also warned civilians in Iran to evacuate areas near military weapons factories and their supporting institutions, citing the potential for further airstrikes [3].

These escalations come as part of a broader conflict between Israel and Iran, with each side targeting the other's infrastructure and military assets. The ongoing operations underscore the strategic importance of these facilities to both nations' military capabilities and long-term security.

References:
[1] https://www.twz.com/news-features/israel-destroys-iranian-aerial-tanker-1400-miles-from-israel-farthest-strike-yet
[2] https://twitter.com/manniefabian/status/1669860523229430272
[3] https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/1669860523229430272