Israeli Army Radio: The military conducted strikes on the Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow nuclear sites.

Israeli Army Radio: The military conducted strikes on the Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow nuclear sites.

In a significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Israel has conducted a series of airstrikes targeting Iran's nuclear facilities. The Israeli military confirmed that strikes were carried out on the Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow nuclear sites as part of an operation dubbed "Operation Rising Lion." The strikes come amid ongoing concerns over Iran's nuclear program and its potential threat to regional stability.

The Israeli military spokesman stated that the operation was aimed at rolling back Iran's nuclear capabilities and creating conditions for a broader diplomatic agreement. However, the operation has led to a sharp escalation in tensions between the two countries. An Israeli official later confirmed that the briefing was interrupted due to an incoming Iranian missile attack targeting central Israel.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that there has been no increase in radiation levels at Iran's primary uranium enrichment site in Natanz following the airstrike. The agency also reported that the Bushehr nuclear power plant was not targeted in the attack and that no damage or abnormalities were reported at the site.

The geopolitical instability has had a significant impact on global markets. Wall Street's major indexes fell as investors reacted to the growing tensions. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) dropped 0.9%, while the S&P 500 (SPX) declined 0.34% and the Nasdaq Composite (NDX) lost 0.4% in midday trading. Despite the pullback, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq were still on track to post a third straight weekly gain, while the Dow was headed for its first weekly loss in three weeks.

Energy stocks gained 1.1% while financials were the worst hit with a 1.3% drop. Brent crude climbed 5.5% to $73.22 per barrel, and WTI crude futures rose 7.3% to around $73. Airline shares fell on fears of rising fuel costs, while defense stocks outperformed.

The U.S. State Department issued a security alert warning of potential missile and drone threats over Iraq. Baghdad has suspended all air traffic and closed its airspace amid concerns about regional spillover. The alert advised seeking overhead cover and shelter in place.

The Israeli strikes have also led to calls for international action. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar called for international help to stop Iran from completing its nuclear program. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the news and urged Iran not to target U.S. interests or personnel.

The geopolitical situation remains fluid, and the market reactions reflect the uncertainty and potential risks associated with the escalating tensions. Investors should closely monitor the situation for further developments and their potential impact on global markets.

References:
[1] https://stocktwits.com/news-articles/markets/equity/israel-hits-iran-isfahan-nuclear-facility-could-pave-way-for-us-led-nuclear-agreement/chliXDARRbV
[2] https://www.observerbd.com/news/529453
[3] https://zeenews.india.com/world/israeli-air-force-conducts-air-strikes-in-iran-2915224.html
[4] https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/world/article/alert-netanyahu-says-israel-launched-a-targeted-20375070.php
[5] https://www.npr.org/2025/06/13/nx-s1-5432607/israel-strikes-iran-nuclear-facilities-expand