Israel has carried out military strikes inside Iran, targeting the country’s nuclear program, according to Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The early morning attack has escalated tensions in the region, with Iran vowing "severe punishment" in response.

Iranian state media reported that Israel launched the strikes, which came just hours after U.S. President Donald Trump warned that Israel could soon target Iran’s nuclear facilities. Tehran claims its nuclear program is peaceful, but Israel and Western nations have long accused Iran of pursuing atomic weapons.

In retaliation, Iran has launched approximately 100 drones toward Israel, according to the Israeli military. Air defenses have been activated as the drones approach, raising fears of a broader conflict.

Following the strikes, Iran, Israel, and Iraq have closed their airspace, disrupting commercial flights and heightening security concerns. The unprecedented move signals the potential for further military escalation.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Washington was not involved in the Israeli operation, emphasizing that the strikes were an independent decision by Israel. The Biden administration has called for restraint on both sides to prevent a wider war.

Iranian media reports that a high-ranking commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was killed in the strikes, though official confirmation is pending. The loss of a senior military figure could further inflame tensions between the two nations.

The international community has expressed alarm over the rapidly deteriorating situation. The United Nations Security Council is expected to hold an emergency meeting, while European and Gulf nations urge de-escalation.