IDF Details Devastating Blow to Iran’s Nuclear and Missile Programs

In a revealing briefing on Friday, IDF Spokesperson Brig.-Gen. Effie Defrin outlined the full scope of Israel’s military campaign against Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure. The details confirm what many had suspected: Israel delivered a comprehensive and preemptive blow to Tehran’s most dangerous ambitions.

Defrin stated that for years, Israel had worked behind the scenes to slow Iran’s nuclear and missile development. But intelligence showing Iran was preparing to assemble multiple nuclear bombs and expand its missile arsenal from 2,500 to 8,000 forced Israel’s hand.

What followed was a meticulously planned and executed operation. In its opening salvo, Israel targeted dozens of senior military figures, 11 nuclear scientists, and key development sites in a surprise attack that secured air superiority over western Iran in a matter of hours.

The IDF and Israel Air Force struck relentlessly for twelve days with two goals: to cripple Iran’s nuclear enrichment and production capabilities, and to dismantle its rapidly expanding missile infrastructure.

According to Defrin, U.S. strikes on the Fordow facility and Israeli strikes on Natanz halted Iran’s immediate ability to weaponize uranium. Thousands of centrifuge production facilities and auxiliary components essential for bomb-making were obliterated. The assassination of top nuclear scientists further disrupted the regime’s ability to restart its programs.

Equally devastating were the attacks on Iran’s missile operations. The IDF hit over 30 missile production sites, focusing especially on long-range systems and guidance factories. The result: over half of Iran’s launchers and hundreds of missiles were destroyed.

Israel also took down more than 80% of Iran’s air defense arrays, enabling a consistent aerial presence that proved critical for follow-up strikes.

Iran launched a furious response 530 ballistic missiles and over 1,100 drones. Yet Israel’s advanced air defense systems intercepted 99% of the drones, preserving civilian lives and infrastructure.

Perhaps most striking, Defrin reported that the elimination of over 30 senior Iranian military commanders prevented the kind of large-scale Iranian retaliation that had been planned. “We had no choice,” he said. “This was not just a mission it was a necessity to secure the future of Israel.”

Though the operation was a military success, Defrin cautioned that Iran’s desire to destroy Israel remains unchanged. The Islamic Republic, he warned, will continue seeking opportunities to rearm and regroup.

In a world increasingly threatened by nuclear proliferation and rogue regimes, Israel once again showed that it will never wait passively in the face of existential threats. It will act strategically, decisively, and with unwavering commitment to the safety of its people.

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