Big News: Israel Strikes Iran Nuclear Facilities

Intermediate | June 14, 2025

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Israel Strikes Iran Nuclear Facilities: Understanding “Operation Rising Lion”

Recently, on June 13th, Israel launched many airstrikes against targets in Iran. Israeli officials called this operation “Operation Rising Lion.” Israel said they attacked different places, including sites connected to Iran’s nuclear program and military. This event is part of the larger situation involving Israel strikes Iran nuclear facilities.

Why Did This Happen? Concerns About Nuclear Plans

Israel explained that they acted because they are very worried about Iran’s nuclear activities. They believe Iran is getting closer to being able to build a nuclear weapon. Israeli officials said this was a preemptive strike, meaning they acted to prevent a future threat. It’s like taking action early to stop something bad from happening later.

What Was the Target?

The Israeli strikes hit many different places across Iran. Reports say targets included important nuclear facilities like Natanz and Esfahan. Military bases and factories that make missiles were also attacked. Some high-ranking military leaders and nuclear scientists were also killed in these strikes.

Iran’s Response and International Reaction

After Israel’s attack, Iran quickly responded by firing many missiles towards Israel. Sirens sounded in Israeli cities, and people had to go to shelters. The United States said it helped Israel shoot down many of these incoming missiles. This exchange of attacks has increased tension in the region, and many countries are calling for peace and calmness.

The Impact and What’s Next

The attacks caused damage on both sides. In Iran, nuclear sites like the one at Natanz were damaged, according to the international nuclear watchdog. In Israel, the Iranian missiles caused some injuries and damage to buildings. Experts are watching closely to see what will happen next and if the situation will become more serious. This is a developing story with potential long-term effects on the Middle East, as Israel strikes Iran nuclear facilities and tensions grow.

Vocabulary

Airstrike (noun): An attack made by aircraft.
- Example: “The news reported several airstrikes overnight.”
Facilities (noun): Buildings, services, or equipment used for a particular purpose.
- Example: “They targeted military facilities.”
Nuclear Program (noun): A plan or set of activities related to developing nuclear technology, possibly for weapons.
- Example: “Concerns about the country’s nuclear program are growing.”
Missile (noun): A weapon that is sent into the air and that explodes when it hits the thing it is aimed at.
- Example: “Iran launched missiles in response.”
Preemptive (adjective): Done to prevent something bad from happening.
- Example: “Officials described the attack as a preemptive strike.”
Retaliate (verb): To do something bad to someone because they have done something bad to you; to take revenge.
- Example: “Iran said they would retaliate against Israel.”
Intercept (verb): To stop something or someone from reaching their intended destination.
- Example: “Air defenses helped intercept the incoming missiles.”
Tension (noun): A situation in which people or countries feel angry or nervous towards each other.
- Example: “The attacks increased tension in the region.”
De-escalation (noun): The process of reducing the intensity of a conflict or situation.
- Example: “Many leaders called for de-escalation.”
Casualties (noun): People who are injured or killed in a war or accident.
- Example: “Reports mentioned casualties on both sides.”

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

What name did Israel give to its operation mentioned in the article?
According to the article, why did Israel say they attacked Iran?
Which types of places did Israel reportedly target in Iran?
How did Iran respond to Israel’s strikes?
Who helped Israel defend against Iran’s response?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

How do you think these events might affect the Middle East in the future?
In your opinion, why do countries worry about nuclear programs?
What does “de-escalation” mean in this situation?
How important is it for countries to communicate during times of tension?
How can countries resolve conflicts peacefully?

Related Idiom

“Playing with fire”

Meaning: To act in a way that is very likely to cause danger or harm.
Example: Starting a conflict in the region is like “playing with fire”.

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This article was inspired by: Reuters, June 13, 2025.