Israel strikes Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility, killing top commanders, scientists

Israel has launched a major military strike against Iran’s main uranium enrichment facility in Natanz, causing significant damage and killing several senior Iranian military leaders and nuclear scientists, according to official statements from both governments and international watchdogs.

The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran confirmed that the Natanz site, located in the central Isfahan province and among the country's most heavily protected nuclear installations, was hit by Israeli airstrikes early Friday morning. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said Iran had formally acknowledged the damage but reported no increase in radiation levels.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the operation shortly after dawn, declaring that Israeli forces had struck "the heart of Iran’s nuclear program," including the underground section of the Natanz site where uranium enrichment had been taking place. He added that Israeli forces also targeted personnel involved in Iran's nuclear weapons development and the country's ballistic missile program.

According to the Times of Israel, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claim Iran possessed enough enriched uranium to produce up to 15 nuclear warheads within days, describing the operation as a preemptive strike to neutralize a growing existential threat.

Iranian state-affiliated media, including Tasnim News Agency, reported that six nuclear scientists were killed in the strike. In a significant blow to Iran’s military leadership, the Iranian General Staff confirmed the deaths of Lieutenant General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of General Staff; IRGC Commander Lieutenant General Hossein Salami; and Air Defense Chief Lieutenant General Ali Rashid.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a defiant response, vowing a "harsh and unforgettable" retaliation. The Iranian Foreign Ministry condemned the attack and held the United States partially responsible, despite US claims of non-involvement.

US President Donald Trump told Fox News that while Washington was informed in advance by Israel, the US did not take part in the strike. “Iran should never have nuclear weapons,” Trump said, expressing hope that diplomacy could resume.

However, following the attack, Iran’s delegation abruptly withdrew from the latest round of nuclear negotiations with the United States, which were scheduled to continue this weekend in Oman. The Omani government, acting as mediator in the stalled talks, condemned the Israeli strike as a dangerous escalation that jeopardizes regional stability.

Iran has requested an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council to address the incident.