An Israeli military operation has left significant destruction at two critical Iranian military bases.
The targeted sites included facilities linked to Iran's past nuclear weapons program and current missile production efforts, the Associated Press reported on Sunday.
The early morning assault focused on the Parchin and Khojir bases, often associated with Iran’s defense sector advancements. Parchin, previously under scrutiny from international bodies for high explosives testing, is thought to have played a part in nuclear weapons development. The Khojir site, on the other hand, is characterized by its underground facilities and pivotal role in missile production.
Satellite images reviewed by The Associated Press confirmed extensive damage across both targeted sites. These detailed visuals provided a clearer picture of the aftermath a day after the attacks, showcasing the precision and scope of the strike.
The Iranian military has so far acknowledged the unfortunate loss of four soldiers and one civilian without confirming the exact sites affected. The incident at Tange Bijar, a natural gas production site in Ilam province, also noted visible damages; though its ties to the Israeli strike remain uncertain.
Israeli military statements suggest the operation specifically targeted missile manufacturing capabilities as a counter-response to previous missile attacks from Iran over the last year. This intention aligns with damage reports and satellite imagery indicating direct hits on infrastructure used for missile production.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed success, stating the strikes “severely harmed” Iran's military potential and affirmed that the operations “achieved all its goals,” pinpointing the destruction as a preventive measure against future threats.
During a press conference, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged a measured response to the attacks. He emphasized the need not to inflate or minimize the impact of these events, which have stirred considerable attention within and beyond the region.
Iran’s direct acknowledgment of casualties was associated with the broader military and infrastructural losses. Yet, clarity remains amiss concerning the full extent of damage and operational disruptions.
Notably, the strikes did not hit Iran’s oil sector, its nuclear enrichment facilities, or the Bushehr nuclear power plant, thus avoiding a broader escalation and potential international crisis. This strategic choice highlights a focused attempt to cripple military capabilities directly linked to missile production without provoking widespread economic or environmental consequences.
The Institute for Science and International Security provided insights into Parchin's Taleghan 2 building on the social platform X, speculating on the possible uses of natural uranium in its past operations which might explain the secrecy and haste in its modifications after 2011 when the IAEA demanded access.
The operation has, according to analysts, avoided populated civilian areas, suggesting a degree of precision aimed at minimizing unintended casualties and collateral damage.
