Multiple Iranian Commanders Killed As US And Israel Hit Tehran Nuclear, Defence And Intelligence Sites

The United States and Israel conducted coordinated strikes inside Iran, hitting nuclear and defence facilities and high-value targets. The operation raised risk of broader regional conflict and prompted Iran to close its airspace while Israel activated emergency measures.

The United States and Israel carried out coordinated military strikes inside Iran early Saturday, triggering loud explosions across Tehran and dramatically escalating the already tense standoff over Iran’s nuclear programme. Initial reports indicate that senior Iranian commanders were killed as multiple high-value targets including nuclear, defence and intelligence facilities were hit.

Smoke was seen rising from central Tehran, with one of the strikes occurring near offices linked to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. It was not immediately clear whether the 86-year-old leader was present at the time, and he had not appeared publicly for several days amid rising tensions.

Strikes Near Supreme Leader Compound

According to reports citing US officials and individuals familiar with the operation, Washington directly participated in the Israeli operation. The attack came after weeks of military positioning by the United States in the region, including the deployment of fighter aircraft and warships intended to pressure Tehran over negotiations on its nuclear programme.

Witnesses in Tehran reported hearing powerful blasts across several districts. Iranian state television later confirmed explosions but did not provide details about damage or casualties.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the operation was conducted “to remove threats.” He did not immediately elaborate.

Iran responded by shutting down its airspace shortly after the attacks, issuing urgent warnings to pilots as explosions continued across the capital.

Israel Activates Emergency Protocols

Air raid sirens were simultaneously heard across Israel amid fears of retaliation. The Israeli military issued urgent public instructions.

"In the last few minutes, sirens were sounded all throughout Israel, with an advance instruction alert directly to cellular devices to stay within proximity to protected spaces. This is a proactive alert to prepare the public for the possibility of missiles being launched toward the State of Israel. The IDF emphasizes that the public is requested to stay in proximity to protected spaces," the IDF said in a post on X.

Authorities in Tel Aviv also declared a nationwide emergency posture and tightened civilian restrictions.

"Following a situational assessment, it was determined that as of today (Saturday), at 08:00, immediate changes will be made to the Home Front Command Guidelines. As part of the changes, it was decided to shift all areas of the country from Full Activity to Essential Activity. The guidelines include: a prohibition on educational activities, gatherings, and workplaces, except for essential sectors. The public is required to follow the guidelines published on the official Home Front Command channels. Full guidelines will be updated on the National Emergency Portal and the Home Front Command app," the military said in another post.

Targets Include Nuclear and Intelligence Sites

Preliminary reports suggest multiple strategic locations were targeted, including nuclear-linked facilities and Iranian defence command infrastructure in and around Tehran. Iranian officials have not yet released an official casualty count, though regional sources claim several senior commanders were killed.

The operation marks one of the most direct US-Israeli military actions against Iranian territory in recent years and significantly raises the risk of a broader regional conflict. Analysts say the strikes appear aimed at degrading Iran’s military command network and forcing concessions in nuclear negotiations.

Region on Edge After Weeks of Tension

The attack followed weeks of escalating rhetoric and military build-up. Washington had been assembling a substantial military presence in nearby waters while diplomatic efforts stalled.

With Iran’s leadership infrastructure and high-ranking officers reportedly hit, attention has now shifted to Tehran’s response. The activation of nationwide civil defence measures in Israel indicates authorities are preparing for missile retaliation or proxy attacks across the region.

No official confirmation has yet been issued by Iran regarding the deaths of commanders, but the situation remains highly volatile as both sides brace for further escalation.