According to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), a recent 12-day offensive delivered a crippling blow to Iran’s nuclear and missile programs. IDF Spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin outlined the details of the operation, as reported by The Jerusalem Post. Israel had previously attempted to halt Iran’s nuclear and missile development through other means. However, with intelligence revealing Iran’s progress towards nuclear weapons and an accelerated missile production program, Israel decided to take action. The initial attacks focused on eliminating key personnel and infrastructure. The Israel Air Force (IAF) targeted air defense systems, quickly gaining control of the skies over western Iran. The surprise nature of the strikes minimized the potential for a large-scale Iranian response. The primary objective of the campaign was to dismantle Iran’s nuclear and missile development capabilities. Strikes on key facilities, including Fordow and Natanz, played a significant role in preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons. The IAF successfully targeted critical centrifuge production sites. The loss of 11 nuclear scientists significantly impacted Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Over 30 missile production and launch facilities were also targeted. The elimination of more than 30 senior Iranian military commanders deterred further retaliation. The offensive resulted in the destruction of a large portion of Iran’s missile launchers, ballistic missiles, and air defense systems. Iran responded with missiles and drones, with a very high interception rate for the drones. Defrin warned that the Iranian regime remains committed to its goal of destroying Israel, despite the damage inflicted on its nuclear and missile programs.
