ISRAEL STRIKES IRAN’S QUDS FORCE HEADQUARTERS IN ESCALATING MILITARY OFFENSIVE
- Edition Sona Times
- Jun 16
- 2 min read
TEL AVIV / TEHRAN — Tensions between Israel and Iran have reached a critical new high after Israel launched a direct aerial assault on the headquarters of Iran’s elite Quds Force, a branch of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), on Saturday night. The strike — part of what Israeli officials are calling “Operation Rising Lion” — marks one of the most aggressive moves yet in the ongoing shadow war between the two nations.
High-profile targets hit, commanders killed
The Israeli operation reportedly targeted military installations in Tehran, Isfahan, and Natanz. Iranian media and international observers have confirmed the deaths of several top IRGC commanders, including intelligence chief Mohammad Kazemi, and generals Hasan Mohaqiq and Mohsen Bakri. Strategic weapons depots and communications hubs were also reportedly destroyed.
Civilian infrastructure was not spared. Explosions near industrial zones, including oil refineries and logistics centers, triggered fires and power outages, adding to the unrest in Iran’s urban centers.
Iranian retaliation and civilian casualties
In retaliation, Iran launched a wave of missiles and drone strikes toward Israeli cities including Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem. While Israel’s Iron Dome defense system intercepted a significant portion of the barrage, several missiles breached the shield, striking residential areas and resulting in at least 24 civilian deaths, including four elderly citizens in the coastal city of Ashkelon.
Over 300 injuries were reported across Israel, while Iranian sources claim over 400 casualties since the escalation began four days ago — a figure that includes both military and civilian losses.
Netanyahu’s firm stance
In a nationally televised address, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the Israeli strikes as “measured, preemptive action” in response to alleged Iranian preparations for a large-scale offensive and renewed nuclear ambitions.
“We do not seek war, but we will not tolerate existential threats,” Netanyahu said. “The Quds Force is a destabilizing force in the region and beyond. We are dismantling this threat at its core.”
The prime minister’s comments suggest that Israel may be pursuing a broader strategy to weaken or even destabilize Tehran’s leadership.
Global concern over further escalation
The United Nations has called an emergency meeting of the Security Council, while international leaders warn that the conflict could rapidly spiral into a regional war. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for Israel’s right to self-defense but urged both sides to show “restraint and responsibility.” Meanwhile, Russia, China, and the European Union called for an immediate ceasefire and the resumption of diplomatic talks.
Analysts are particularly concerned about the potential involvement of Iranian allies, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, and Houthi rebels in Yemen — all of which could ignite a multi-front regional conflict.
Economic shocks and humanitarian impact
Global markets are already feeling the tremors. Crude oil prices soared above $100 per barrel following reports of attacks on Iranian refineries. Airlines have canceled flights to several Middle Eastern capitals amid growing security concerns.
On the ground, civilians in both Israel and Iran are bracing for the worst. Shelters in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are at capacity, while in Iran, access to medicine, electricity, and safe housing is becoming increasingly scarce.
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