Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-22 at 16:06
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HEADLINESUS Launches Largest B-2 Strike Against Iran’s Nuclear SitesIran Fires Missiles at Israeli Airport, Injuring 23Israel Targets Iranian Long-Range Missiles Deep Inside IranThe time is now 12:01 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.At noon, we begin with the latest developments in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The United States has confirmed that it conducted a significant military operation against Iran, targeting three of Tehran’s nuclear facilities with a combination of advanced aircraft and precision-guided munitions. According to top US military officials, the operation, dubbed "Midnight Hammer," involved over 125 aircraft, including stealth B-2 bombers, guided missile submarines, and intelligence assets. The strikes caused "extremely severe damage" to the targeted sites, which included the nuclear facilities at Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. Initial assessments indicate that these sites have sustained extensive destruction, with the US emphasizing that this action aims to severely degrade Iran’s nuclear capabilities, though it is too early to determine the full impact.The operation marks the largest B-2 stealth bomber strike in recent history, with seven aircraft flying over long distances and employing the Massive Ordnance Penetrator, a bunker-buster weapon capable of penetrating 200 feet underground. Additionally, the US submarine launched more than two dozen Tomahawk cruise missiles at surface infrastructure in Isfahan, further crippling Iran’s nuclear program. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that Tehran’s nuclear ambitions have been "obliterated," reaffirming Washington’s commitment to preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons.Meanwhile, Iran’s response has been swift and aggressive. Tehran claims to have launched missile attacks on multiple Israeli targets, including the Ben Gurion airport, causing at least 23 injuries. Iran has also threatened to retaliate directly against US interests in the region. In response, Israel has intensified its military operations, striking deep into Iranian territory—most notably, for the first time at a distance of approximately 2,200 kilometers, Israeli fighter jets targeted missile storage facilities in Yazd containing long-range Khorramshahr missiles. The Israeli military reports that these strikes aimed to preempt missile launches against Israel, destroying missile tunnels and storage sites.In addition to these military actions, Israel has conducted simultaneous strikes across Iran, targeting missile launchers, military bases, and drone facilities in Isfahan, Boushehr, and Ahvaz. The Israeli Air Force also announced the destruction of the Imam Hussein missile command center in Yazd, from which dozens of long-range missiles were launched toward Israeli territory. The operation involved around 30 aircraft and more than 60 munitions, with commanders emphasizing the goal of reducing Iran’s firepower and defending Israeli civilians.The regional situation remains tense. Hezbollah continues to prepare for potential conflict, with reports of internal divisions within Lebanon’s Shia militia camp. Some leaders oppose escalation, while others follow directives from Tehran. Iran’s leadership has publicly declared its willingness to defend itself "by all means necessary," with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian urging calm but warning of retaliation.In the broader international arena, France’s President Emmanuel Macron has urged Iran to release detained French citizens and called for de-escalation. Macron also discussed with Gulf leaders the importance of maintaining stability, emphasizing that diplomacy remains essential despite recent military actions. The United States continues to warn Iran against blocking the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that such an act would be "economic suicide" and lead to a broad regional escalation.Inside Israel, the nation observes a somber atmosphere. Jerusalem’s main gate is now adorned with memorial stickers honoring fallen soldiers, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the Western Wall today, offering prayers for peace and the safety of Israeli Defense Forces personnel, seeking divine protection amid the ongoing hostilities.In Gaza, life persists with a semblance of normalcy despite the recent flare-up in regional tensions. Trucks laden with food from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates entered the strip, though reports indicate some looting along the route. Israeli military operations continue in Gaza, with the IDF maintaining its defensive posture while downplaying reports of escalation, focusing on countering threats from militant groups and preventing missile launches.On the domestic front, Israeli emergency services report over 1,200 casualties since the start of operations, including 24 fatalities and numerous injuries. The Israeli government remains on high alert, coordinating military and civil responses to potential threats from multiple fronts.Internationally, diplomatic efforts are underway. France’s Macron has called for restraint, and Israel’s Foreign Minister Gidon Sa’ar has reiterated Israel’s commitment to act in accordance with security council directives. Meanwhile, protests supporting Iran’s regime have taken place in Tehran, where thousands gathered in Revolution Square, expressing solidarity and opposition to US and Israeli actions.To conclude, the Middle East enters a critical phase as military operations intensify, regional alliances are tested, and the global community watches closely. The coming hours will be decisive in shaping the trajectory of this confrontation, with all parties weighing their next moves carefully. We will continue to monitor these developments and bring updates as they unfold.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. 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