Israel Launches Preemptive Strike Against Iran
Israel carried out strikes against Iran on Thursday evening, according to multiple reports. The Israel Defense Forces “launched a preemptive, precise, combined offensive to strike Iran’s nuclear program,” the IDF wrote on X. "Today, Iran is closer than ever to obtaining a nuclear weapon," the IDF stated, highlighting the urgency of their actions.
The IDF added that Israel “has no choice but to fulfill the obligation to act in defense of its citizens and will continue to do so everywhere it is required to do so, as we have done in the past.”
Videos shared across social media showed explosions in Tehran as a result of the strikes. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the importance of the strike, stating, “This is a fight for our survival.”
International Response to the Strikes
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the U.S. was not involved in the strikes but emphasized the protection of American forces in the region. Lawmakers like Sen. Lindsey Graham and Rep. Randy Fine expressed support for Israel's actions.
The strikes targeted military bases, homes of Iranian military commanders, and Iran’s Natanz nuclear site. Several Iranian military officials, including Gen. Hossein Salami, were reported to be killed in the strikes.
Implications and Future Outlook
The strikes came amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran over the latter's nuclear program. While war is not imminent, the situation remains volatile. The Trump administration remains firm on preventing Iran from enriching uranium.
The Heritage Foundation experts highlighted that limited strikes on rogue nuclear programs do not necessarily lead to war. The U.S. stands with Israel and its allies against Iran's regional threats.
