Israel has deployed its advanced fighter jets and missiles to carry out “precise strikes on military targets” in Iran, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two nations. The airstrikes, executed in three waves, follow Iran’s launch of nearly 200 ballistic missiles aimed at Israel in retaliation for the killings of the leaders of its proxies, Hezbollah and Hamas.

Jets Capable of Covering 2,000 Kilometers

In its latest strikes, Israel utilized its fifth-generation F-35 Adir fighter jets, F-15I Ra’am ground attack jets, and F-16I Sufa air defense jets, capable of covering about 2,000 kilometers. The Israeli forces employed the ‘Rampage’ long-range supersonic missile and the next-generation ‘Rocks’ extended stand-off air-to-surface missile as their primary weapons.

Israeli Army Concentrated on Military Targets 

The Israeli army concentrated exclusively on military targets, deliberately avoiding nuclear and oil facilities to mitigate the risk of escalating the conflict further.

A total of 100 fighter jets executed attacks in three waves on 20 missile and drone facilities in Iran. The initial wave targeted Iran’s radar and air defense systems, paving the way for subsequent strikes on military bases. The second and third waves focused on Iran’s missile and drone facilities.

The fighter jets executed the strikes in groups of 25 to 30. While 10 jets conducted the coordinated missile strikes, the remaining aircraft provided cover and diversion. During the operation, dubbed ‘Operation Days of Repentance,’ Israeli and U.S. air defenses remained on high alert to counter any potential retaliatory missile attacks.

The Middle East has been on high alert for Israel’s retaliation following Iran’s ballistic missile barrage on October 1. Israel delayed its counterstrikes due to adverse weather conditions, as its missiles utilize camera seekers to accurately hit targets. The Israeli military was awaiting clear weather to proceed with the operation.

Iran claimed that its air defense system successfully countered Israel’s attacks in the provinces of Tehran, Khuzestan, and Ilam, reporting “limited damage” to some locations. In response to the strikes, both Iran and its neighbor Iraq closed their airspace.

Two Soldiers Killed 

Two Iranian soldiers were killed on Saturday as Israel conducted direct airstrikes on Iran, citing retaliation for “months of continuous attacks” by the Iranian regime. The Israeli army carried out at least three rounds of “precise” strikes on military targets in the Iranian capital, Tehran, and surrounding areas.

Iran responded by claiming its defense systems successfully countered the attacks, though it acknowledged “limited damage” at some sites. Hours later, the Israeli military announced the completion of its strikes, stating it had achieved its objectives during what it termed Operation Days of Repentance. An Iranian source cautioned that a “proportional response” to Israel’s “aggression” was forthcoming.