Israel strikes 150 Iran targets, focuses on nuclear, military

Israel strikes 150 Iran targets, focuses on nuclear, military

In a significant escalation of tensions between Israel and Iran, Israel launched preemptive strikes on Iran's nuclear and military facilities early on Friday. The strikes, part of an operation codenamed "Operation Rising Lion," targeted over 150 sites, including the Natanz nuclear site and several military installations [1].

The strikes, carried out by over 200 Israeli fighter jets, resulted in the deaths of top military commanders, including General Hossein Salami, the chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and Major General Mohammad Bagheri, the chief of staff of the armed forces. Additionally, at least two nuclear scientists were killed [2].

In response to the Israeli strikes, Iran launched over 100 drones towards Israel, prompting calls for restraint from international leaders. The United Nations' nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), also called for maximum restraint to avoid further escalation [2].

The escalation has had significant implications for global markets and aviation. Air India, one of the affected airlines, reported that several of its flights were impacted, with some flights returning to their points of origin or being diverted to alternate destinations. The airline has offered refunds or complimentary rescheduling to impacted passengers [2].

Investors and financial professionals should closely monitor the situation, as tensions between Israel and Iran could potentially lead to further military action and economic instability in the region. The escalation could also impact oil prices, given Iran's significant role in the global oil market.

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[1] Onmanorama | Israel said early on Friday that it struck Iran, and Iranian media said explosions were heard in Tehran as tensions mounted over US efforts... | Instagram
[2] Mumbai-London Air India Flight Starts Return Journey: An Air India flight from Mumbai to London reportedly switched direction midway on Friday to return to Mumbai hours after takeoff. The reason behind the sudden change in course could not be ascertained immediately. The airline was expected to release a statement soon. Experts said that rising tensions between Iran and Israel could be the reason behind the move, prompting the airline to take a safety measure and call the flight to base. Meanwhile, as many as 16 flights were impacted by the evolving situation in Iran after Israel said it had launched preemptive strikes on military and nuclear targets in Iran. ALSO READ: Israel strikes Iran, targets nuclear, military sites Iran closed its airspace indefinitely after Isreal launched multiple strikes under its "Operation Rising Lion" to target Iran's nuclear programme. Iran-Israel Tensions | 16 Air India flights impacted, see full list