[Middle East Watch #01] Israel’s Airstrike on Iran – 2025 Crisis Overview

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This post follows up on developments first explored in Iran Watch #01 – Navigating Sanctions and Economic Resilience.

A detailed analysis of Israel’s 2025 airstrike on Iran – the Rising Lion operation, Iran's retaliation, global response, market shocks, and the deaths of top IRGC and nuclear figures. A must-read Middle East crisis update.

A symbolic square image of a desert landscape divided by a glowing fault line, with distant city silhouettes on one side and drone outlines in a dusky sky on the other. The tone is cinematic with amber and navy hues, conveying rising geopolitical tension.


Table of Content

  1. 1. Operation Overview – The 'Rising Lion' Strike
  2. 2. Results and Limitations of the Attack
  3. 3. Iran’s Retaliation – 'Vow of Truth III'
  4. 4. Global Reactions – From Condemnation to Diplomacy
  5. 5. Economic Fallout – Oil, Gold, and Supply Chain Disruptions
  6. 6. What's Next – War or Diplomatic Resolution?
  7. 7. FAQ – Key Questions Answered

1. Operation Overview – The 'Rising Lion' Strike

In early June 2025, Israel launched a coordinated airstrike codenamed "Rising Lion", targeting 12 critical locations, including nuclear enrichment sites in Natanz and Fordow. The operation was triggered by Iran’s halted cooperation with IAEA inspectors and enriched uranium stockpiles exceeding critical thresholds. Israeli stealth jets and precision-guided missiles were deployed in what Tel Aviv called a “necessary defensive measure.”

2. Results and Limitations of the Attack

While Israel claimed significant damage, especially to surface-level facilities, U.S. intelligence assessments and satellite imagery suggest that deep underground centrifuge bunkers remained largely intact. Iran’s nuclear program suffered delays, but not total destruction. Several senior military officials were reported killed, though Iranian media insisted that “core infrastructure remains operational.”

3. Iran’s Retaliation – 'Vow of Truth III'

Just 48 hours later, Iran responded with 'Vow of Truth III', launching over 200 missiles and dozens of drones from bases in Tehran, Mashhad, and Isfahan, as well as military outposts in Syria. Some projectiles penetrated Israeli air defenses, damaging infrastructure in southern Israel and Jerusalem suburbs. Iran has warned of additional retaliatory waves.

4. Global Reactions – From Condemnation to Diplomacy

The United States, while not officially endorsing the Israeli strike, reaffirmed its commitment to Israel’s defense. The EU and UN called for immediate de-escalation and diplomatic dialogue. Russia and China criticized Israel’s actions and acknowledged Iran’s right to self-defense. The Arab League expressed concern over regional stability.

5. Economic Fallout – Oil, Gold, and Supply Chain Disruptions

Markets reacted instantly. Brent crude surged over 12%, surpassing $103 per barrel, while gold hit $2,600 per ounce, a historic high. Stock markets dipped globally. Disruptions in shipping lanes, oil exports, and Middle East air routes have raised alarms in logistics and energy sectors.

6. What's Next – War or Diplomatic Resolution?

Despite military exchanges, both sides appear reluctant to enter full-scale war. Instead, asymmetric warfare — cyberattacks, proxy conflicts, and drone skirmishes — may dominate the coming weeks. Diplomatic channels led by the U.S., Oman, and Qatar are exploring backdoor negotiations.

“Infographic-style illustration combining maps of Iran and Israel, oil barrels, a drone, a radar screen, a smartphone, and a rising line graph — symbolizing geopolitical tension, surveillance, and economic implications. Sosan Daily watermark is placed in the bottom-right corner.


7. FAQ – Key Questions Answered

Q1. Why did Israel strike Iran?
Israel acted on intelligence suggesting Iran was nearing nuclear weapon capability. The breakdown of IAEA inspections and rising uranium enrichment were cited as red lines.

Q2. Were Iran’s nuclear facilities destroyed?
Not entirely. While some were damaged, the most fortified underground sites remained operational, according to satellite analysis.

Q3. What was Iran’s response?
Iran launched hundreds of missiles and drones at Israeli targets, causing civilian and military damage. Further retaliatory action is possible.

Q4. How did world powers respond?
The U.S. supported Israel’s defense but urged restraint. Europe pushed for diplomacy. Russia and China backed Iran’s right to defend itself.

Q5. What’s the impact on global markets?
Oil and gold prices surged. Global shipping routes through the Middle East have become unstable, affecting supply chains and inflation worldwide.

Q6. Were key figures killed in the attack?
Yes. Confirmed deaths include IRGC Commander Hossein Salami, Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri, and nuclear scientists Fereydoun Abbasi-Davani and Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi — all considered vital to Iran’s military and nuclear programs.


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