Israel claims major strategic victory after 12-day war with Iran

The Israeli military has declared a sweeping strategic victory following a 12-day conflict with Iran, asserting it achieved "total aerial superiority at the heart of Iran" and exceeded all objectives of its offensive, dubbed Operation Rising Lion. 

The announcement was made in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) by IDF Arabic-language spokesperson Avichay Adraee.

According to the IDF’s account, the campaign resulted in widespread damage to Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure. Among the key claims:

• Thousands of uranium-enriching centrifuges were destroyed.
• Approximately 200 missile launch sites were taken out, representing nearly 50% of Iran’s total arsenal.
• The three primary nuclear facilities of the Iranian regime were reportedly “severely damaged.”
• Multiple research and development centers related to Iran’s nuclear ambitions were bombed.

The IDF also reported the elimination of 11 senior nuclear scientists allegedly tied to Iran’s nuclear weapons program. In addition:

• Over 35 missile production sites were bombarded.
• More than 80 surface-to-air missile platforms were hit.
• 15 enemy aircraft were destroyed.
• 6 Iranian airports were targeted.
• Hundreds of Iranian military personnel were killed.
• Dozens of command centers were struck.
• More than 30 senior Iranian military and security officials were reportedly eliminated.

The extent of the destruction, as described by the Israeli military, reflects what it calls a decisive blow to Iran’s military and nuclear capabilities. No independent verification of the figures provided has yet been made, and Tehran has not issued a full official response to the specific claims listed by the IDF.

The conflict marks one of the most direct and intense confrontations between the two countries, raising concerns across the international community about the potential for broader regional escalation.